Fluorinated polymeric matrices are an attractive class of materials due to their applicability for use in various environments including use as high performance materials. Specifically, perfluoropolyethers (PFPEs) are low molecular weight oligomeric fluoropolymers that have low volatility, minimal shear thinning, and a viscosity that is nearly independent of temperature making them stable in extreme processing conditions. PFPEs are well-known to undergo accelerated thermal degradation in the presence of native metals and Lewis acids. The work presented herein is motivated by the potential of harnessing the energetic behavior as a result of degradation pathways facilitated by exothermic metal-mediated oxidation. Computational modeling/simulation supported by thermal experimental studies showed that micro- and nanometer sized aluminum Fomblin-Y (a PFPE) blended formulations produced a viable energtic material. These formulations serve as an additive in commerical polymeric matricies including epoxy resins, electrospun fibers, and foamed polyurethanes. This work will discuss the preparation, characterization, and thermal transport properties of these composite systems.

Metallized perfluoropolyether nanocomposites: New materials for structural energetics

249th National Meeting (2015)

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