Metal-organic frameworks induce hypergolic ignition of bulk metals

Abstract

We demonstrate the unprecedented ability to induce hypergolic behavior, i.e. rapid and spontaneous ignition upon contact with an oxidizer, in non-hypergolic metal fuels by blending them with hypergolic metal-organic frameworks (HMOFs). Using magnesium, aluminum or zinc metal as the fuel, we demonstrate materials with ignition delays (IDs) below 50 ms, and calculated specific impulse (Isp) in the 220-250 s range. These parameters are comparable to those of toxic and carcinogenic hydrazine-based hypergols conventionally used in aerospace technologies, suggesting a route to develop cleaner, safer propulsion systems.

Vibrational dynamics as an essential determinant of the thermal stability of zinc zeolitic imidazolate lattices

“…17 With specific alterations of the linker, ZIFs can perform as hypergolic materials or additives. 18,19 Hence, the chemical and physical stabilities of the designed ZIFs are critical and can affect the desired applications. Therefore, understanding ZIF's mechanical and thermal stabilities is crucial.…”