Silicon-Based Nanocomposites for Energetic Applications

Nanoscale and nanostructured energetic materials are enabling technologies for defense applications. Many current and future requirements cannot be achieved by using more conventional materials only. By exploiting the "tunable" nature of nanocomposites, one can adjust the energy output, light output, strength of materials, and sensitivity to various stimuli. This is accomplished via altering the constituents, particle or grain size, surface area and surface characteristics of the material. Porous silicon is being explored as a novel fuel to replace a variety of materials in energetic formulations for the above-stated reasons. A matrix of formulations was generated in which magnesium was replaced by silicon and barium chromate was replaced with more environmentally friendly oxidizers in order to improve upon a legacy first fire mixture. The materials were tested for impact, friction, and ESD sensitivity and characterized based on light output and color, burn time, and ignition temperature. Results will be discussed.