Surface Functionalization and Electrical Discharge Sensitivity of Passivated Al Nanoparticles

Passivated aluminum nanoparticles are surface functionalized to elucidate their sensitivity against an electrical discharge. Two size fractions that differ in surface morphology are investigated. Electronic interactions between the partly inert, partly energetic organic molecules used for surface functionalization and the alumina surface are analyzed in detail. The nanoparticle surfaces are modified with the well-established, inert 2-[2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy]acetic acid, whereas energetic surface modification is achieved using 1,3,5-trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-triazine or the acidic and aromatic 2,4,6-trinitrophenol. A mechanistic model for the chemical surface functionalization of Al nanoparticles is hypothesized and corroborated by comprehensive optical and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies. The surface structures are adjusted by developing a tunable stabilization procedure that prevents sedimentation and hence increases the saturation concentration in the liquid phase and finally affects the sensitivity character in view of electrical discharge ignition of dry powders. Detailed material characterization is conducted using transmission electron microscopy, combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and various absorption spectroscopy techniques (steady state in the infrared and ultraviolet/visible regime). The adjustment of surface structures of the distinct Al nanoparticle samples offers a valuable tool for tuning and tailoring the reactivity, sensitivity, stability, and energetic performances of the nanoparticles, and thereby enables the safe use of these multipurpose nanoparticles.