NATO AOP-48 PDF

The aim of this AOP is to standardize stability test procedures for nitrocellulose based propellants using stabilizer depletion. This AOP also describes an approach for assessing the chemical life and the temperature dependence of stabilizer consumption rates for nitrocellulose based propellants. This AOP merges and replaces the following STANAGs: 4117, 4527, 4541 and draft STANAG 4542.

The test procedures were developed to facilitate cross procurement and provide a means by which countries can satisfy themselves that propellants received from abroad will remain chemically stable, if stored at ambient storage temperatures, for a minimum of five (5) or ten (10) years. The test procedures were also developed to facilitate assessment of the chemical life of nitrocellulose based propellants for qualification purposes. This AOP does not address any possible other effects, such as changes of physical and mechanical properties which alter the service life of nitrocellulose based propellants.

This AOP will be reviewed upon the request of a participating nation. If any changes are proposed the national delegate of the submitting country shall request that the Chairman of AC/310 Subgroup 1 includes this as an agenda item for the next meeting of the Subgroup.

Requests to revise AOP-48 must be accompanied by supporting documentation and should be presented to the Chairman of AC/310 Subgroup 1 for inclusion on the agenda of the next meeting of the Subgroup. Subgroup 1 will rewrite and approve the revisions of this AOP. Such revisions will be provided to the Custodian Nation and to the International Staff secretary for publication. The Czech Republic is the Custodian Nation for this document.