Synthesis and Reactive Properties of Iron Oxide–Coated Nanoaluminum

A homogeneous coating of Fe3O4 on in situ–generated nanoaluminum was accomplished by thermal decomposition of Fe(CO)5 in an aluminum aerosol stream and subsequent oxidation of iron by air bleed. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) investigation revealed that oxygen penetrated through this coating, and Fe3O4 facilitated the formation of an expanded aluminum oxide layer compared to an uncoated aluminum case. Closed cell combustion tests displayed a minor decrease in pressure response for the coated product, which was attributed to the increased aluminum oxide layer. The critical ignition temperature was reduced for the coated product in T-jump fine-wire combustion tests.