Interactions between microwaves and smart energetic materials: A review on emerging technologies for ignition and combustion enhancement

This work reviews the interactions between microwaves and energetic materials, including propellants, explosives, and pyrotechnics. Special attention is paid to recent advancements in microwave ignition and combustion enhancement of smart energetic materials. The paper details the principles and mechanisms that govern microwave interactions with energetic materials and elaborates on the theoretical frameworks relevant to ignition and combustion enhancement. Critical data regarding the response of energetic materials to microwave exposure were analyzed. Various microwave applications were assessed and compared, with strategies and research findings integrated to evaluate each method. The study concludes by identifying key challenges and suggesting future research directions, primarily focusing on enhancing the responsiveness of smart energetic materials and optimizing microwave energy efficiency.