(655a) Combustion Characteristics of Calcium Iodate Based Biocidal Formulations

Combustion Characteristics of Calcium Iodate Based Biocidal
Formulations

Fidel D.Ruz-Nuglo,
Lori J. Groven

Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering,

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, Rapid City, South Dakota

Abstract

Biocidal formulations have been
well explored by a number of researchers over the years and typically include a
metal fuel such as Aluminum and iodates such as I₂O₅ or
KIO₃. However, these formulations are plagued by aging and
degradation of the iodate and/or the aluminum (fuel), which in turn reduces
their efficacy.  To overcome this some
type of protective agent for the iodates and for the aluminum is
necessary.  In this effort,
fluoropolymers serve as i) the protective agent for
both the iodates and the aluminum within the formulations, and ii) as a polymer
binder for the development of a printable biocidal. In this study, the fluoropolymer
(THV) is found to be effective in protecting both the calcium iodate and the
aluminum powder under accelerated aging conditions (70 °C, 30% RH).  Simultaneous differential scanning
calorimetry (DSC) and thermo-gravimetric (TG) analyses were performed to
elucidate the complex interactions between the fluoropolymer, iodate, and
aluminum.  Inks were formulated with THF
or DMF serving as the solvent and printed using a Nordson
EFD system.  The combustion
characteristics are presented as a function of polymer loading and line width.  Combustion velocities on the order of 150 mm/s
were observed when nanoscale aluminum is used as the fuel. The necessary
rheological characteristics and the associated safety characteristics of the
printed formulations will also be detailed.