Effect of mechanical activation on combustion characteristics of Al–CuO powder mixture

Abstract This paper presents the results of experiments carried out to reveal the influence of the initial parameters of the thermite mixture Al–CuO on the signs of a chemical reaction between its components. Initial parameters were the characteristics of the starting components, preparation conditions and characteristics of the mixture and samples, experimental schemes, methods of initiation. The most important parameter was the preliminary mechanical activation of mixture. The prepared mixture with controlled porosity was placed in experimental assemblies and a chemical reaction was initiated. Values and tendencies of the brightness temperature and the propagation rate of reaction area were determined for different initial parameters of mixture and initiation conditions. The reaction in the volume of the experimental assembly goes into flare combustion in open space. Values of brightness temperature at the stage of flare formation have a stochastic character, determined by the random distribution of reaction sites in the initial volume of the components. A high-speed camera, a pyrometer, photoelectronic and electrocontact sensors were used as diagnostic tools. The final goal of the study is to optimize parameters of mechanical activation of mixture for its effective applying in various conditions.