Incendiary Potential of Exothermic Intermetallic Reactions
Abstract
The objective of the research was to study the incendiary potential of intermetallic reactions. A thorough literature review of the thermochemistry of exothermic alloy formation, measurement of the reaction rates, reaction temperatures, and ignition characteristics of loose and pressed binary and tertiary mixed powders provided basic information for incendiary assessment. The borides, carbides, and aluminides of titanium, zirconium, and nickel were found to offer the greatest promise. The data were compared with those obtained by a computerized heat transfer analysis of rod shaped and hollow cylindrical geometries. The rate controlling parameters were found to be particle size, thermal conductivity, heat of reaction, and diffusivity. In most cases it was found that reaction characteristics were independent of particle size distribution, particle shapes, contamination, bulk density, and compaction. Experimental data agreed with analytical predictions. Intermetallic reactions were deemed to be a novel class of reactions and the results were found to have wide applicability in improving the performance characteristics of pyrotechnic, ordnance, and incendiary devices.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0889403
Entities
People
- Alexander P. Hardt
Organizations
- Lockheed Martin Missiles and Space