Effect of novel graphene-based ferrocene nanocomposites on thermal decomposition of AP

Graphene-based ferrocene nanocomposites play a positive role in improving the comprehensive properties of solid propellants containing ammonium perchlorate (AP). Novel graphene-based ferrocene nanocomposites with different molecular structures were successfully fabricated and characterized systemically using SEM, EDS, FTIR, RAMAN and XPS instruments. Additionally, the catalytic performance of the as-synthesized graphene-based ferrocene nanocomposites on the thermal decomposition and kinetics behavior of AP were studied using DSC and kinetic methods. The result showed the excellent catalytic performance of graphene-based ferrocene nanocomposites, and the molecular structure plays a significant influence on thermal decomposition of AP. Among the nanocomposites considered, the as-synthesized graphene-based ferrocene nanocomposite NG-550-Fe (γ-aminopropyl triethoxy silane as modifier) owns best catalytic activity, and the decomposition peak temperature and activation energy of AP + NG-550-Fe was reduced by 137.7 °C and 151.6 kJ·mol⁻¹ respectively, compared with pristine AP. Combined with the reported studies, the relatively stronger combination of KH-550 and the better dispersion of Fe may be the reason why NG-550-Fe is more effective than other graphene-based ferrocene nanocomposites and traditional supported graphene nanocomposites studied. Results of this study have implications concerning the rational design of graphene-based catalyst, and help to better understand their catalytic performance and mechanism on AP decomposition.