CoOOH Nanosheets as High-Efficiency Catalysts for Thermal Decomposition of Ammonium Perchlorate: Experimental and Kinetic Studies

The development of high-efficiency, low-cost catalysts to enhance the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP) is crucial for improving the performance of composite solid propellants. In this study, CoOOH nanocatalysts were synthesized via a precipitation method, while Co 3 O 4 counterparts were subsequently obtained through calcination. A systematic comparison of their catalytic effects on AP thermal decomposition was conducted using thermogravimetric analysis (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and real time infrared spectroscopy. These techniques enabled comprehensive investigation of kinetic parameters, high-temperature reaction pathways, and decomposition physical models. Furthermore, structure-performance relationships between catalyst characteristics and AP decomposition efficiency were elucidated. Notably, the incorporation of 2 wt% CoOOH nanosheets significantly advanced the high-temperature decomposition peak of AP by 124°C, the heat release increased by 81.4%, the activation energy decreased by 26.7%, and the decomposition rate increased by 431.2%. The excellent catalytic performance of CoOOH is attributed to its unique nanosheet structure and abundant surface reactive oxygen species. The study also reveals a mechanistic transition of the CoOOH+AP system from the L2 model to the R3 model, which establishes a theoretical framework and practical approach for optimizing propellants through nanocatalyst engineering.