Recent progress on transition metal oxides and carbon-supported transition metal oxides as catalysts for thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate

As a main oxidizer in solid composite propellants, ammonium perchlorate (AP) plays an important role because its thermal decomposition behavior has a direct influence on the characteristic of solid composite propellants. To improve the performance of solid composite propellant, it is necessary to take measures to modify the thermal decomposition behavior of AP. In recent years, transition metal oxides and carbon-supported transition metal oxides have drawn considerable attention due to their extraordinary catalytic activity. In this review, we highlight strategies to enhance the thermal decomposition of AP by tuning morphology, varying the types of metal ion, and coupling with carbon analogue. The enhanced catalytic performance can be ascribed to synergistic effect, increased surface area, more exposed active sites, and accelerated electron transportation and so on. The mechanism of AP decomposition mixed with catalyst has also been briefly summarized. Finally, a conclusive outlook and possible research directions are suggested to address challenges such as lacking practical application in actual formulation of solid composite propellant and batch manufacturing.