Kinetic study and advanced decomposition models of superthermite-based nitrocellulose nanocomposite

ABSTRACT

Superthermites are well-known for their exceptional combustion characteristics. α ferric oxide nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using hydrothermal synthesis. Co-precipitation technique was employed to integrated superhermite (Al/Fe₂O₃) colloidal particles into nitrocellulose (NC) energetic matrix. Morphology NC nanocomposite was investigated using scanning electron microscope. The integration of superthermite particles into NC matrix experienced enhanced decomposition enthalpy by 40% using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) as the decomposition enthalpy has incresed to reach above 1640J/kg. In the mean time, superthermite particles offered decrease in NC activation energy by 17.3% and 16.0% using Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS) approach and Kissinger models, respectively. The hydrous surface of ferric NPs could secure novel catalytic action. At low temperatures, the reactive hydroxyl groups could be released; active ȮH radicals would attack the NC heterocyclic ring and abstract hydrogen atom. Addition of NPs enhanced the rapid release of different decomposition products of NC such as NO₂ ,CO, NO, HCHO, and HCOOH at low temperature. Kinetic models indicated that the heterogeneous solid-state reaction and A2 nucleation model were confirmed via KAS and Kissinger models.

KEYWORDS:

• Catalyst
• energetic systems
• nitrocellulose
• thermal behavior

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).