Exploring the characteristics and thermal behavior of double base propellants based on nitrocellulose and diethylene glycol dinitrate in the presence of ternary-nanothermites containing various oxidizers

Abstract

In this research, three distinct ternary-nanothermites were subsequently integrated into double base propellant formulated with nitrocellulose (NC) and diethylene glycol dinitrate (DEGDN). These nanothermites consisted of magnesium and aluminum alloy (MgAl) as fuel and metal oxides (CuO, NiO, and TiO₂) acting as oxidizers. Experimental results demonstrated the uniform distribution of the three investigated nanothermites throughout the NC/DEGDN composite. DSC findings indicated a significant increase in the overall heat release of the NC/DEGDN double base propellant upon the addition of the three nanothermites. It is found that the type of oxidizer within the nanothermite composition played a crucial role in the thermo-kinetic proprieties of the NC/DEGDN propellant. Specifically, nanothermites incorporating CuO and TiO₂ acted as catalysts, substantially enhancing the thermolysis of the propellant. In contrast, MgAl–NiO exhibited a stabilizing effect on the thermal decomposition of NC/DEGDN propellant. These findings offer appreciated insights into the tailoring properties of double-base propellant by selectively incorporating specific nanothermites based on their oxidizer content.