Quantum Design and Synthesis of Nanoscale High Energetic Materials for Efficient Miniature Explosive Systems and Green Composition

In Phase I, Conducting Materials Corp, (CMC) proposed to fabricate stabilized nanoscale Li-Al ally particles and to understand their kinetic behavior by theoretical modeling. The unique properties of nano Li-Al alloy particles would increase energy outputon explosion as it will react completely and improve the burn rate. CMC fabricated nano particles of Li-Al alloy, stabilized and characterized them. Samples of these were sent to Eglin AFB. The modeling studies showed these particles to be alloys andthat thy react completely with oxygen. In addition, during the Phase I work, CMC developed a technique of coating materials with thin nano Al film whose surface is oxidized for stabilization. The modeling studies revealed that MnO4* has anextraordinarily high electron affinity (4.9 eV). This was further verified experimentally. During Phase II, CMC plans to make use of these new findings. Taking into consideration that Lithium produces 10Kcal/g energy compared to Al¿s 7 Kcal/g, we woulduse micron size lithium and nanoscale Li-Al particles and coat them with nanoscale Al. We will then oxidize the surface of these particles. This will render the particles safe for handling and storage, being large they will mix easily, they will reactcompletely due to nano Al coating and give out more energy because of Lithium. Theoretical modeling of this reaction would be carried out. Additionally, based on findings regarding MnO4*, another modeling effort will show the feasibility of replacinglead azide (environmentally undesirable) by the more powerful composition of Al + NH4 MnO4*. This composition can be directly mixed with TNT, thus eliminating the need for a separate initiator and saving space in the system. The above approaches will leadto safe, smaller, more effective explosive systems.