(511d) Investigation of Reaction Mechanisms and Combustion Characteristics of Nanothermites

Nanoenergetic mixtures, although sometimes classified as thermite composites, do not react in the same manner as conventional thermite mixtures. Due to the smaller particle size and higher surface area, the rate of energy release is several orders of magnitude higher. This research study has been focused on the investigation of mechanisms of energy release in nanoscale thermite mixtures such as Al-Fe2O3 and Al-CuO. High speed video camera and a pressure sensor system are used to monitor the reaction front propagation of these nanoenergetic mixtures inside small diameter tubes. This series of tests is intended to characterize the transition from slow to fast reaction rates as well as monitor the effects of pressure and confinement on reaction front propagation. Differential scanning calorimetry and closed volume pressure cell tests were performed to determine the effect of gaseous atmosphere on both reaction rate and energy output of the nano-thermite mixtures.