Mechanism of Catalytic Thermal Decomposition of Ammonium Perchlorate in the Presence of Ti3C2Tx

Zhanibek Korkembay; Moldir Auyelkhankyzy; Meiram Atamanov; Zulkhair Mansurov; Viatcheslav Bykov

doi:10.18321/ectj1664

Authors

Zhanibek Korkembay Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 71 al-Farabi Ave., Almaty, Kazakhstan; S.D. Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, 94 Tole Bi Str., Almaty, Kazakhstan
Moldir Auyelkhankyzy Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 71 al-Farabi Ave., Almaty, Kazakhstan; Institute of Combustion Problems, 172 Bogenbay batyr Str., Almaty, Kazakhstan
Meiram Atamanov Institute of Combustion Problems, 172 Bogenbay batyr Str., Almaty, Kazakhstan; Kazakh National Women's Teacher Training University, 99, Aiteke Bi Str., Almaty, Kazakhstan
Zulkhair Mansurov Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 71 al-Farabi Ave., Almaty, Kazakhstan; Institute of Combustion Problems, 172 Bogenbay batyr Str., Almaty, Kazakhstan
Viatcheslav Bykov Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Institute of Technical Thermodynamics, Engelbert-Arnold-Str. 4, Bld. 10.91, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18321/ectj1664

Keywords:

Ammonium perchlorate, MXene, Catalysts, Nanocomposites, Thermal decomposition, Ti3C2Tx/AP composite, Solid rocket fuel

Abstract

The thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP) proceeds via a well-established stepwise mechanism. However, its catalytic decomposition under combustion conditions is not yet fully understood. This study investigates and clarifies the catalytic decomposition pathway of AP in the presence of Ti₃C₂T_x, a novel two-dimensional (2D) material with unique structural properties. MXene was chosen for its exceptional conductivity, large surface area, and layered architecture, which provide active sites for redox interactions and enhance the thermal decomposition rate of AP. During combustion of AP-based solid rocket propellants, MXene acts as a catalyst, promoting more complete and rapid oxidation reactions. The combustion products were thoroughly analyzed using X-ray phase analysis, and based on the obtained data, stoichiometric equations for the potential reaction pathways were proposed. These equations highlight the formation of metal oxides and intermediate chlorinated compounds. Furthermore, a schematic model illustrating the catalytic action of Ti₃C₂T_x was developed, showing the interaction between AP molecules and MXene’s surface functional groups. These findings advance understanding of nanocatalyst behavior in energetic materials and offer insights for improving solid-propellant performance via MXene incorporation.

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