Abstract
ABSTRACT Ammonium nitrate (AN) could serve as a green substitute for ammonium perchlorate (AP) in halogen-free oxidizers. However, AN faces issues with endothermic phase transitions, melting, and sublimation. Ferric oxide, a common catalyst for solid propellants, was used to catalyze AN. This study reports the synthesis of 5 nm colloidal ferric oxide particles, integrated into the AN matrix through co-precipitation. Energy dispersive analysis by X-rays (EDAX) confirmed the proper dispersion of the ferric oxide catalyst. The impact of ferric oxide on AN decomposition enthalpy was assessed using differential scanning calorimetry DSC. Virgin AN showed an endothermic decomposition enthalpy of +1708 J/g, while catalyzed AN showed exothermic decomposition of −732 J/g. Ferric oxide nanocatalyst offered a decrease in AN main decomposition temperature by 83°C using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Activation energy dropped significantly, from 87.3 to 16.8 KJ/mol (Kissinger model), due to ferric oxide’s catalytic effect involving ferric and ferrous ion reactions.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
