Advanced Reactive Intermetallic Nanolaminate Propellants for Dual Use

An innovative magnesium intermetallic-polymer nanolaminate propellant with ultra-high surface area, potential for extremely high reaction rates, full utilization of the intermetallic material, and very safe to handle system is proposed. A patented ultra high speed nanotechnology vacuum process is used to produce the nanolaminate material, which, even in powder form, can have hundreds of very thin intermetallic layers, separated by protective polymer layers, resulting in a very high surface to volume ratio. Similar nanolaminate high energy density material has successfully passed compatibility and safety gates and has been incorporated into HTPB-based formulations and successfully test fired in a small rocket motor. Results to date are very favorable for the nanolaminate containing fuel which shows better thrust and chamber pressure with no detectable agglomeration. The nanolaminate-based fuels also exhibit less nozzle blockage, greater tensile strength, and similar ESD sensitivity. Similar results are expected for the magnesium intermetallic nanolaminates including increased reaction rates. A Phase I program is now proposed wherein a high energy magnesium intermetallic-polymer nanolaminate structure will be proposed, produced, evaluated, and retro-fitted into today's technologies. Optimum particle size for the nanolaminate particles which are subsequently incorporated into propellant formulations will also be characterized.