Catalytic Performances of Metal Oxides for Thermal Decomposition of Sodium Chlorate.

Catalytic Effects of Metals on Thermal Decomposition of Sodium Chlorate for Emergency Oxygen Generators

“…The largest catalytic effect was observed for Co, where decomposition starts at 250 °C and is complete at 400 °C. A distinct plateau is observed at temperatures from 320 to 350 °C, the result of a sequence of steps involved in sodium chlorate decomposition. − Catalytic activity of Ni starts at higher temperatures for Co, while the decomposition is complete at the same temperature (400 °C) with no plateau observed. The weight curves at 400−750 °C indicate that oxidation of Co and Ni occurs in parallel with sodium chlorate decomposition.…”

“…7,8 To understand the combustion mechanisms and to ensure stable oxygen generation, it is important to investigate potential catalytic effects of Sn and Fe on sodium chlorate decomposition. Prior studies [1][2][3][4][5] have focused on the catalytic activity of metal oxides. It is known, however, that metal powders not only serve as fuel but can also catalyze decomposition of substances such as sodium chlorate.…”

“…Their ignition leads to exothermic decomposition of sodium chlorate and evolution of oxygen. The reactive mixtures also include transition metal oxide, such as cobalt (Co 3 O 4 ) or nickel (NiO) oxide, as catalyst for sodium chlorate decomposition − and metal fuel, such as tin (Sn) or iron (Fe), which provides additional energy required for self-sustained combustion . The process is characterized by pulsations of front propagation and oxygen flow rate. − …”

Chloric Acid and Chlorates

“…However, because of extreme shock sensitivity and unpredictability, such mixtures are not classed as permissible explosives in the United States. Chlorates also form flammable and explosive mixtures with phosphorus, ammonium compounds, some metal compounds, and some metal salts (36). Chlorates in neutral and alkaline solutions at room temperature do not show oxidizing properties.…”