The use of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) as a screening method for the explosive properties of chemicals has been investigated. Definitive detonation, deflagration, and heating under confinement test methods for classifying energetic chemicals for transportation are provided by UN Recommendations. Recently, decomposition energy screening criteria were added to the recommendations. In addition to the decomposition energy of chemicals, this investigation evaluates the potential for improving screening efficiency by utilizing the DSC-measured extrapolated onset temperature. The data indicate there is a positive relationship between the DSC values and explosive properties, and this approach is less conservative than the UN Recommendations' energy breakpoints. An equation is derived that correctly categorizes all but one chemical. This is a simple approach to use and is an improvement over energy screening alone. However, it must be used with caution because of the limited number and classes of chemicals tested.
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