Energetic Al-Coated 5,5′-Dinitro-3,3′-bi(1,2,4-triazole) Green Functionalized Cu Nanosheet Films for Ignition-Able Micro Devices

Integrating energetic materials into microelectromechanical system (MEMS) to enhance their energy output characteristics has shown extensive potential across aerospace, defense, and civilian applications. Within this study, the MEMS compatible Cu/DNBT (DNBT = [5,5′-dinitro-3,3′-bi(1,2,4-triazole)]) and Cu/DNBT@nano-Al energetic films were successfully synthesized on the copper substrate using an electrochemical method and a drip coating method. The scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential thermal analyses (DTA), and a pulse laser ignition test were used to analyze the morphology, composition, thermal performance, and ignition properties of the prepared samples. The findings indicate that the prepared Cu/DNBT and Cu/DNBT@nano-Al energetic films exhibit a nanostructure, and their morphology can be effectively regulated via modifications to the deposition voltage, deposition time, and aluminum plating frequency. Furthermore, the energetic properties of Cu/DNBT@nano-Al films can be adjusted after the deposition of nano-Al. Their heat release, flame height and ignition duration can reach up to 1823.1 J·g–1, 13.5 mm, and 400 μs, respectively. These findings suggest that Cu/DNBT@nano-Al energetic films being a prime contender for initiating powders in MEMS pyrotechnics. In summary, this work offers valuable insights into the integration and application of energetic materials in MEMS ignition devices.