Validation and uncertainty estimation for conformity declaration of a method to assess the stability of nitrocellulose-based propellants

Abstract The scope of the present study was to develop and validate a rapid and precise method for the evaluation the stability and the chemical life of nitrocellulose-based propellants which contain as stabilizers diphenylamine, N-nitrosodiphenylamine, 2-nitrodiphenylamine, 4-nitrodiphenylamine and ethyl centralite. This was made by using the calculation of the weight percentage concentration (% w/w) of the initial effective stabilizer, the calculation of the weight percentage concentration (% w/w) of the effective stabilizer after artificial ageing, as well as the reduction of the concentration as a % percentage. All crucial parameters were investigated and optimized. The validation and the uncertainty estimation of the method was based on the Eurachem Guidelines. The recovery of the method was found higher than 95% and the RSD values were found less than 10%. The ageing procedure was found to be the most important factor influencing the uncertainty. The present study describes a very important procedure for ammunition management and the way to provide a declaration of conformity for safe use and storage.