LAUSR

The stability of aluminum (Al) nanoparticles (ANPs) is a key issue that can determine the energetic properties of Al‐based energetic materials. In this study, a surface functionalization approach is employed, using the chemical adsorption and auto polymerization effects of the 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H‐perfluorodecyltriethoxysilane (FAS‐17), to set up a highly stable barrier coating to water and further endow ANPs with long‐term storage stability and self‐activation reaction capability. The FAS‐17‐modified ANPs (AFNPs) with a superhydrophobic surface show their excellent stability in air and unique strengths in corrosion resistance to water by enhancing diffusion resistance of O2 and preventing the hydration reaction. In terms of energetic performances, compared to the two‐step slow oxidation of ANPs, the heat‐release rate of AFNPs is significantly enhanced, resulting in a drastic oxidation process profiting from the surface reaction between the FAS‐17 and alumina (Al2O3) layer. More importantly, the ignition and combustion properties of AFNPs are also greatly improved, which can undergo self‐propagation combustion with a fairly high energy output even after stored in water. At last, the possible mechanisms of oxidation resistance and self‐activation reaction capacities are also proposed.