Next-Generation of Boron-Based Energetic Materials and Formulations

The modernization of military capabilities relies on the implementation of explosive and propulsion systems offering new levels of performance. For example, ensuring battlefield dominance, both in offensive and defensive capabilities, will require the increase of missile system kinematic range and speed through the development and fielding of a new generation of propellant systems. In addition to the need to increase the speed and range of propelled systems, maintaining or increasing lethality factors when payloads are reduced due to the incorporation of guidance components in ordnances at the expense of high-explosive (HE) loadings is also a critical objective. This proposal aims at developing and demonstrating boron-based energetic formulations wherein the typical boron powder fuel is replaced by more reactive boron composites that provides a higher energetic output than traditional boron-based formulations. Through judicious design of novel boron composites and full distribution of each component at the nano-scale level, MATSYS will enable the development of novel energetic formulations to meet the Navy’s needs and establish new opportunities for harvesting boron’s true energetic potential. The new boron-based energetics proposed by MATSYS will bridge the technological gap between existing composite formulations and theoretical combustion performance of boron, while our development of novel computational methods for the simulation of combustion events of boron-based formulations will enable the rapid transition of a new generation of dual-purpose energetics to the US Navy and the broader DoD community.