Bioinspired polydopamine interface reinforced boron-Viton composites with high structure stability and energy releasing efficiency

Boron has attracted increasing attention in the field of high-energy explosives and propellants due to its high volume calorific value and mass calorific value. However, the complicated combustion process and low combustion efficiency hinder its wide application. To tackle this challenge, bioinspired polydopamine (PDA) interface reinforced boron-Viton composites, with high structure stability and excellent energy releasing efficiency, are designed and prepared, combining the interface regulation of PDA biomimetic materials and combustion promotion of fluoropolymers. Firstly, the stronger adsorption energy of PDA with boron compared to Viton is demonstrated by molecular dynamics simulations. Next, B@PDA@Viton is prepared by the combination of in-situ dopamine polymerization and solvent/non-solvent method, and the double-layer core-shell structure is confirmed by XPS, FTIR, and TEM characterizations. TG-DSC analysis shows that B@PDA@Viton possesses superior thermal properties, with a 55.48% increase in oxidation heat compared to raw B. Furthermore, ignition and combustion performance tests indicate that B@PDA@Viton reduces ignition delay by 57.56% and increases heat of combustion by 68.63% relative to raw B. These findings elucidate the ignition and combustion mechanisms of B@PDA@Viton. This work not only developed high-performance boron-based composite fuels but also provided insights into the development of boron-based fuels. • Developed a bioinspired core–shell boron composite (B@PDA@Viton) by integrating polydopamine interface, achieving enhanced structural stability and improved interfacial adhesion. • MD simulations reveal that PDA increases binding energy with B and F, facilitating a tightly bonded dual-layer shell that prevents coating detachment. • The synergistic effect of PDA and Viton coatings effectively disrupts the boron oxide passivation layer via chemical etching and formation of B 4 C, thereby reducing ignition delay. • B@PDA@Viton exhibits superior combustion performance, including a 55% increase higher heat release, 3% lower onset oxidation temperature, shorter ignition delay and higher peak combustion pressure.