Abstract

ABSTRACTNanothermites consisting of a reducing metal and a metal oxide nanopowder represent a new generation of energetic materials in pyrotechnics due to their impressive reactive properties. However, their extreme sensitivity regarding electrostatic discharge appears to be detrimental to their future practical applications. Herein, the mitigation of the sensitivity thresholds of the aluminium/tin (IV) oxide energetic nanocomposite is successfully achieved by using a conducting polymer, polyaniline (PAni). PAni was introduced within the thermite by the chemical polymerization of an oxidizer/PAni hybrid matrix. The SnO2–PAni composites were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, electrical conductivity measurements, and transmission electron microscopy. The derived Al/SnO2–PAni thermites were investigated in terms of sensitivities and reactivity. Results revealed gradual desensitization of the Al/SnO2 thermite as a function of the concentration of PAni for both the electrostatic discharge (0.14–1212 mJ) and friction (216–360 N) tests while maintaining reactive energetic composites. This work presents a way for the preparation of insensitive and reactive energetic formulations. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48947.

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