Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)-bridged architecture of ternary Bi2O3/MWCNTs/Cu microstructure composite with high catalytic performance via two-step self-assembly

Binary and ternary microstructure composites based on CNTs have potential applications in many technological fields. In our works, we realized MWCNTs-bridged architecture of ternary Bi2O3/MWCNTs/Cu microstructure composite by two-step self-assembly. In order to verify its workability, we investigated catalytic performances of a series of additives for ammonium perchlorate (AP) thermal decomposition. The results showed that catalytic performance of Bi2O3/MWCNTs/Cu composite was better than those of the other additives, and the peak temperature for high-temperature AP decomposition reduced 151.6 °C; while no low-temperature AP decomposition was observed. MWCNTs have two crucial roles in catalytic enhancement on AP thermal decomposition: firstly, being to act as a supporter which can effectively disperse copper and Bi2O3 particles; secondly, being to act as a bridge, excited electrons from semiconductor can conduct and store on the surfaces of MWCNTs, which is beneficial for AP thermal decomposition. Therefore, MWCNTs-bridged architecture can synergistically enhance catalytic effect of copper and Bi2O3.

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