Decomposition of ammonium perchlorate: Exploring catalytic activity of nanocomposites based on nano Cu/Cu2O dispersed on graphitic carbon nitride

Copper (Cu) and its oxides are well-known catalysts for thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP). Nano Cu/Cu2O dispersed on graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) based nanocomposites were synthesised by single displacement reaction and its effect on thermal decomposition of AP was studied. As-prepared catalysts were characterized using various techniques. The catalytic activity of the synthesised products was evaluated using Thermogravimetry-Differential Scanning Calorimetry. Among the catalysts prepared, Cu/g-C3N4-80:20 with an optimum surface area of 15 m(2) g(-1) showed excellent catalytic activity towards thermal decomposition of AP. Presence of 0.2 % of Cu/g-C3N4-80:20 catalyst boosted the rate of high temperature decomposition reaction of AP by decreasing the peak decomposition temperature from 370 to 320 degrees C and also by liberating similar to 1.3 times higher energy of decomposition as compared to pristine AP. similar to 23 times hike in rate of the reaction could be achieved in the presence of 0.2 % Cu/g-C3N4-80:20 catalyst.