The densification and mechanical behaviors of large-diameter polymer-bonded explosives processed by ultrasonic-assisted powder compaction

•Ultrasonic vibration was applied on the compaction process of PBX powder.•By application of ultrasonic increase in the compressive modulus and the tensile fracture and strength was measured.•Enhanced homogeneity and microstructure evolution were reported by applying ultrasonic vibration.•The ultrasound assistance can effectively improve the densification level of samples and lower internal total particle surface area.