Comparison of engineered nanocoatings on the combustion of aluminum and copper oxide nanothermites

► Six hydrophobic coatings were applied to thermite pellets and substrate samples. ► The coated pellets and substrate samples were submerged for 0, 3, 5, and 10 days. ► The energy released from the pellets decreased as submerged time increased. ► The hydrophobic coatings deteriorated as submerged time increased.