A high energy output and low onset temperature nanothermite based on three-dimensional ordered macroporous nano-NiFe2O4

Abstract

Three-dimensional ordered macroporous (3DOM) Al/NiFe₂O₄ nanothermite has been obtained by a colloidal crystal templating method combined with magnetron sputtering processing. Owing to the superior material properties and unique 3DOM structural characteristics of composite metal oxides, the heat output of the Al/NiFe₂O₄ nanothermite is up to 2921.7 J g⁻¹, which is more than the values of Al/NiO and Al/Fe₂O₃ nanothermites in literature. More importantly, by comparison with the other two nanothermites, the onset temperature of about 300 °C from Al/NiFe₂O₄ is remarkably low, which means it can be ignited more easily. Laser ignition experiments indicate that the synthesized Al/NiFe₂O₄ nanothermite can be easily ignited by a laser. In addition, the preparation process is highly compatible with the MEMS technology. These exciting achievements have great potential to expand the scope of nanothermite applications.