Preparation and Combustion Characteristics of Spherical Al @ C Based on Electric Explosion

Abstract

To investigate the combustion characteristics of spherical Al@C nanoparticles, an aluminum wire electrical explosion experimental system was constructed to synthesize the particles. A systematic investigation of the microstructural and morphological characteristics of Al@C nanoparticles was conducted, with comparative analysis performed on their thermal decomposition properties and combustion behaviors through AP-based mixtures containing either the synthesized Al@C nanoparticles or conventional nano-aluminum powder. Results demonstrate that the Al@C nanoparticles prepared by electrical explosion exhibit a distinct core-shell structure, featuring a carbon coating layer of approximately 10 nm thickness with stable interfacial bonding between the carbon layer and aluminum core. The carbon coating effectively isolates oxygen and demonstrates inherent thermal stability. Compared with conventional nano-aluminum powder, the carbon-coated structure in Al@C nanoparticles provides the following advantages:reduces AP decomposition temperature and accelerates AP decomposition reaction;Maintains aluminum reactivity while significantly enhancing combustion rate and stability;Suppresses particle agglomeration during combustion;Enhances energy release while stabilizing AP decomposition;Promotes uniform thermal diffusion during combustion, achieving higher core temperatures and more stable combustion wave propagation.

Keywords: electrical explosion, nanoparticles, aluminum wire, combustion characteristics