Lattice Inclusion of Copper Ions in Ammonium Perchlorate through Co-crystallization: Impact on Lattice, Physical, and Thermal Characteristics

Ammonium perchlorate (AP) is an important oxidizer extensively used in composite solid propellants. Any alterations in the lattice configuration of AP could bring in a dramatic change in its physical, thermal, and ballistic characteristics though the basic thermodynamic properties could remain unaltered. In this work, we attempt to dope AP with copper nitrate through co-crystallization and examine its impact on the lattice, physical, and thermal characteristics. The effect of copper ion on the crystal morphology, bulk density, friability, moisture content, and the decomposition behavior is compared with normal propellant-grade AP. The incorporation of copper ion into AP resulted in an increase in bulk density and aspect ratio and a marginal decrease in the average particle size. The shape factor remained intact. The presence of copper ion remarkably decreased both the low- and high-temperature decomposition and reduced the activation energy for both stages, confirming the catalytic nature of copper-doped AP.