Prof. Eli Flaxer published an article in the Chemical Engineering Journal

ABSTRACT:

The chemistry of lead-free energetic materials suitable for laser-ignition systems is an emerging field of research with a broad range of applications. Developing thermostable, safe, and nontoxic materials that are sensitive enough to be ignited by low-power laser is a formidable challenge. In this work, we designed, prepared, and studied the properties of new sulfur-containing energetic materials based on new compounds. These materials are more thermostable than their sulfur-free analogues. Perchlorate-free complex C7 was found to have low-power laser igniting properties.

Based on our hypothesis, this photo-thermal ignition takes place via sequential multi-photon absorption, with energy transfer to vibrational motions in the molecule. Our results indicate that these types of compounds (such as C7) open up a new platform for developing novel energetic materials with a potential for further development and integration into safe laser-based energetic components in civil, aerospace, and defense applications.

To read the article:

Power of sulfur - Chemistry, properties, laser ignition and theoretical studies of energetic perchlorate - free 1, 3, 4 - thiadiazole nitramines