Nanohybrids of reduced graphene oxide and cobalt hydroxide (Co(OH)2|rGO) for the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate

Abstract

The catalytic activity of nanoparticles of cobalt hydroxide supported on reduced graphene oxide, Co(OH)₂|rGO, was studied for the decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP), the principal ingredient of composite solid propellants. Co(OH)₂|rGO was synthesized by an in situ reduction method, which avoided the application of extremely high temperatures and harsh processes. rGO stabilized the nanoparticles effectively and prevented their agglomeration. The performance of Co(OH)₂|rGO as a catalyst was measured by differential scanning calorimetry. Co(OH)₂|rGO affected the high-temperature decomposition (HTD) of AP positively, decreasing the decomposition temperature of AP to 292 °C, and increasing the energy release to 290 J g⁻¹. The diminution of the HTD of AP by Co(OH)₂|rGO is in between the best values reported to date, suggesting its potential application as a catalyst for AP decomposition.