Design of Novel Oxygen-Fuel Integrated Micro-Unit Composite Fuel Under the Influence of Core-Shell Synergistic Effect: Improving the Ignition and Combustion Performance of Propellants

Abstract

Improving specific impulse and optimizing combustion performance have long been central objectives in the development of composite solid propellants (CSPs). A novel AP-based composite fuel was designed and prepared through interface engineering strategies, utilizing fuel-oxidizer integration and core-shell synergy. This composite fuel was incorporated into solid propellants as a replacement for conventional AP. The morphology, structure, and thermal properties of Al@AP were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Additionally, combustion tests were performed to assess the combustion performance of the propellants, and the condensed combustion products (CCPs) were analyzed. The results indicate that the Al content in AP@Al is positively correlated with the catalytic effect on AP’s thermal decomposition. When AP@Al replaces traditional AP, the combustion rate increases by up to 21.8%, and the ignition delay time is reduced by up to 30%, compared to conventional solid propellants with the same formulation. Furthermore, the aggregation of combustion products is significantly reduced, providing further insight into its potential mechanism.

Keywords: ammonium perchlorate, Composite solid propellant, Interface Engineering, combustion performance