Synthesis of chrysalis-like CuO nanocrystals and their cat alytic activity in the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate

Abstract

Chrysalis-like morphologies of CuO have been synthesized in large-quantity via a simple chemical deposition method without the use of any complex instruments and reagents. CuO nanocrystals showed a different morphology at three different temperatures, 25, 60 and 100°C. The particle size, morphology and crystal structure of the samples were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectra. The catalytic effect of CuO nanoparticles on the decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP) was investigated by STA 409 PC thermal analyzer at a heating rate of 10°C min⁻¹ from 35 to 500°C. Compared with the thermal decomposition of pure AP, the addition of CuO nanoparticles decreased the decomposition temperature of AP by about 85°C.