An energetic material comprising an elemental fuel, an oxidizer or other element, and a carbon nanofiller or carbon fiber rods, where the carbon nanofiller or carbon fiber rods are substantially homogeneously dispersed in the energetic material. Methods of tailoring the electrostatic discharge sensitivity of an energetic material are also disclosed. Energetic materials including the elemental fuel, the oxidizer or other element, and an additive are also disclosed, as are methods of reducing ignition sensitivity of the energetic material including the additive. The additive is combined with the elemental fuel and a metal oxide to form the energetic material. The energetic material is heated at a slow rate to render inert the energetic material to ignition while the energetic material remains ignitable when heated at a fast rate.

A desensitizing agent and method which desensitizes triacetone triperoxide (TATP). The agent includes a common polymer dissolved in a volatile solvent, which allows for direct, rapid application on-site, providing for safer movement and transport of the explosive. Drop heights in impact test results of treated TATP were twice that of neat TATP or TATP treated with conventional agents. The agent is composed of non-toxic, inexpensive components with the polymer delivered in a solvent vehicle, which quickly volatilizes after application and exhibits compatibility with TATP and conventional explosives.

A liquid electrically initiated and controlled composition comprising an oxidizer, soluble fuel additive(s), and other optional additives to enhance the chemical or ballistic properties, or a combination thereof is disclosed. The liquid composition further comprises stabilizers to enhance thermal stability, sequestrants to minimize deleterious effects of transition metal contaminants, and combustion enhancers maximizing efficiency. Buffers and heavy metal sequestering or complexing agents may be used in combination to achieve the highest degree of thermal stability. Additional ionic co-oxidizers may be added to the liquid composition to stabilize the liquid oxidizer and further depress freezing point. The liquid phase of matter allows flow via pipes or tubes from tanks, reservoirs, or other containers, through metering valves, followed by ignition or combustion modulation when stimulated by electrodes, statically or dynamically.