Low-Temperature Cost-Effective Synthesis of MgB₂ for Energetic Applications

In this paper, we report the low-temperature synthesis of MgB2 particles with improved ignition, high energy release, controlled particle size distribution, and minimum agglomeration. A facile solid-state reaction involving homogeneously mixed Mg (800 nm) and low-cost boric acid is used for the synthesis. X-ray diffraction patterns and high-angle annular dark-field–scanning transmission electron microscopy–energy-dispersive spectroscopy (HAADF-STEM-EDS) micrographs confirm the formation of MgB2, distribution of elements in a particle, and the elemental composition. Surface analysis of the synthesized particles using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveals the chemical states present on their surface. Particle size analysis using dynamic light scattering indicates the narrow-sized distribution of fine synthesized particles with an average particle size of ∼675 nm. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results show faster ignition and high energy release (19.4 kJ/g) as compared to the commercial powder (3 kJ/g), making the synthesized MgB2 an attractive candidate for energetic applications.