Combustion Features of Nanothermites in Pyrotechnic Heaters

Abstract

Several thermite systems (Al/Fe2O3 and Mg/Fe2O3) with promising applications in sealed pyrotechnic heat sources under space conditions have been reported earlier. Experiments have found excellent propagation of the combustion reaction of these thermites inside sealed steel tubes. Outer tube surfaces have been heated up to 700–1000°C. This article focuses on nanothermites, i.e., the mixtures having the same composition but containing nano-sized components. Simultaneous thermal analysis is employed to study the reactivity of these thermite systems and the reaction products. The effect of nanothermites and the method used for mixing the components on the burning velocity, temperature on the tube surface, and the critical combustion diameter are determined.