Aluminum Powders for Energetics: Properties and Oxidation Behavior

Abstract Aluminum powders of different particle sizes (from nano- [ a s  = 0.01–0.5 μm] to micron-sized ( a s  = 1–500 μm) and particle shapes (spherical and flakes) are widely used in energetics: from rocket propulsion to self-propagated high-temperature synthesis and water-splitting hydrogen-generating compositions. In this chapter the features of aluminum powder properties will be discussed along with their reaction kinetics and oxidation behavior in different oxidation media: from weak oxidizers (water and air) to strong oxidizers such as rocket propellants.