Examination of aluminum nano/micro particle behavior via photothermal heating
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[EMBARGOED UNTIL 12/01/2025] Aluminum's high energy density, natural abundance, and unique reactivity make it a critical material for energetic applications in explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics. The following thesis explores the photothermal behavior and reaction mechanisms of aluminum nano/micro particles under laser irradiation. Experimentation focuses on supporting the melt dispersion mechanism as the primary reaction driving spallation rather than the diffusive oxidation mechanism. Experiments were conducted in both inert argon environments and ambient air to isolate the role of oxygen in particle behavior. A scanning electron microscope and custom optical microscope allowed for precise imaging and targeting of particles. The results reveal that spallation is primarily driven by a thermomechanical mechanism. The work herein reports inert testing of aluminum nanoparticles in an argon atmosphere without nearby oxidizers, confirming that oxygen is not necessary for MDM-driven spallation. Also, the findings provide new insights into the fundamental thermal responses of aluminum micro particles under varying parametrics of laser irradiation.
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M.S.