MoS2 stabilize Ti3C2 MXene for excellent catalytic effect of thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate

Ammonium perchlorate (AP), the most widely used oxidizer in energetic materials, is crucial for studying catalytic thermal decomposition. Newly discovered Ti3C2 MXene and MoS2 demonstrating promising prospects in the field of the pyrolysis catalyst in AP. In this study, we employed a hydrothermal method to anchor nano-sized MoS2 in situ on the surface of Ti3C2 MXene, leading to the fabrication of MoS2-Ti3C2 nanocomposites. Various characterizations indicated that MoS2 was attached to the surface and edges of Ti3C2, thereby enhancing the stability and conductivity. Results revealed that upon the addition of 4 wt% MoS2-Ti3C2, the low-temperature decomposition peak of AP reduced from 331.2 degrees C to 296.6 degrees C, while the high-temperature decomposition peak advanced from 427.5 degrees C to 387.1 degrees C, showing a superior catalytic effect compared to the individual MoS2 or Ti3C2. Additionally, the catalytic mechanism of MoS2-Ti3C2 on the thermal decomposition of AP may involve enhanced electrical conductivity, facilitating rapid proton transfer (H+), accelerated redox reactions, prompt release of gas products, and thereby expediting the progression of the decomposition reaction. Consequently, it can be anticipated that anchoring MoS2 on the surface of Ti3C2 represents an effective strategy for enhancing the catalytic activity of Ti3C2 MXene towards the thermal decomposition of AP.