Novel Propellant Formulations Containing Functional Polymer Nanoparticles

The unique properties of nano-particulates, such as high surface area have the potential to enhance the ballistic properties of propellant mixtures. Nano-particulates typically have disadvantages in processing as they have a strong propensity to agglomerate and can dramatically increase the viscosity of mixing. The chemical compatibility of the nanoparticle with the other elements of the propellant is important for dispersion however the high surface area of the nanoparticles makes using a surfactant or dispersant prohibitive. For minimum signature propellants based on nitrocellulose and other organic/hydrocarbon fuel and/or binders the solution is to use polymer nanoparticles that share similar structural characteristics with the main components. In the Phase I program, Luna Innovations prepared multifunctional polymer nanoparticles that are readily dispersed in nitrocellulose/nitramine based propellant mixtures and these blends exhibit higher relative burn rates than their unmodified counterparts. In collaboration with ATK, Luna will implement this nanomaterial technology into fully formulated rocket motors for the Army with improved ballistic properties and longer shelf lives.