Large Volume Production of Core-Shell Nanothermite

ABSTRACT: Advances in nanotechnology have promised non-linear improvements in a variety of energetic materials applications; however, the practical application of the technology has not matched its promise. One area of particular interest is in producing core-shell energetic materials based on metal (fuel)/metal oxide (oxidizer) chemistry that demonstrate thermite-like reactions. Cornerstone Research Group Inc. (CRG) proposes to adapt an existing in-situ manufacturing technique to produce core-shell particles in an affordable, scalable process. The in-situ technology that CRG employs is simple to implement, easily scaled to relevant scales, and offers a higher quality of particles than what is reported in literature. The process allows for a safer method of particle incorporation as no particles are handled by workers and there is no mixing. It is not a colloidal process, so there is no route for agglomeration or phase separation. The proposed work will demonstrate the feasibility of using the in-situ process to fabricate core-shell structures to meet the Air Force's future supply demands for high energy density explosive compounds. Advantages resulting from CRG's proposed concept will allow for high volume production of a material whose theoretical value has been promised but could not be practically realized prior to now due to production limitations. BENEFIT: Operational Benefits: (1) Enhanced thermite tailorability, (2) improved energy density with no cost to reactivity, (3) increased stability and safety, and (4) No handling of nanoparticles. Commercial Applications: (1) Underwater welding and (2) plateless/jointless railroad track installation or repair.