[FTIR and thermal analysis study of GAP and GAP/B]

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Chemical Engineering

Context:

• Understanding the thermal stability of energetic materials is crucial for safety and performance.
• Glycidyl Azide Polymer (GAP) is a key energetic polymer, but its thermal decomposition characteristics require detailed study.
• The influence of additives, such as boron, on GAP's decomposition is not fully understood.

Purpose:

• To investigate the thermal decomposition behavior of Glycidyl Azide Polymer (GAP) and its boron-modified counterpart (GAP/B).
• To analyze the effect of boron on the decomposition mechanism, kinetics, and thermal stability of GAP.
• To compare the decomposition pathways of GAP and GAP/B in different atmospheres (air and nitrogen).

Summary:

• FTIR and TG-DTG analyses revealed that GAP's azide group elimination occurs between 170-250°C, with depolymerization delayed by 40°C.
• Boron addition (GAP/B) significantly lowers the decomposition onset temperature to 55-70°C and synchronizes depolymerization with azide elimination.
• Kinetics parameters indicate lower activation energies for GAP and GAP/B decomposition in air, suggesting enhanced reactivity due to oxygen presence.

Impact:

• This research provides critical insights into the thermal stability and decomposition mechanisms of boron-modified energetic polymers.
• The findings can guide the formulation of safer and more effective energetic materials by controlling decomposition pathways.
• Understanding the role of boron in altering GAP's thermal decomposition is vital for designing advanced propellants and explosives.