Advancements in ferrocene-based burning rate catalysts: Preparations, properties, catalytic and anti-migration mechanism

Competent composite solid propellants (CSPs) demand high burning rates (BRs) for optimal performance. Adding burning rate catalysts (BRCs) in a propellant system is one of the key strategies to achieve the desired characteristics, as the BRCs show a settling character in enhancing the working efficiency of CSPs. Among various types of BRCs, ferrocene (Fc)-based compounds are notable for their superior catalytic performance in the burning process. This review explores the preparation of Fc derivatives, Fc-based polymers, Fc-terminated dendrimers, Fc-based MOFs, and Fc-based carbon-rich materials. Also explores the electrochemical, thermal, catalytic, and anti- migration properties of Fc-BRCs in detail. Furthermore, this review highlights the catalytic mechanism of Fc-BRCs as ammonium perchlorate (AP) decomposers as well as the anti-migration mechanism in CSPs. Additionally, a summary has been created to contrast the anti-migration and catalytic activities of different Fc-BRCs. Fc-BRCs are expected to significantly improve the combustion performance of propellants by facilitating more uniform and efficient burning. Their unique structural properties allow for improved oxidation processes, which can lead to higher energy yields and reduced soot formation. This development not only improves the reliability and effectiveness of numerous propulsion systems but also opens up new avenues for designing innovative propellant formulations and applications in the aerospace and defense sectors.