Combustion of Titanium Oxide Based Thermite Systems with a Complex Reducing Agent and an Energy Additive under the Influence of Overload

Abstract

The laws and mechanism of combustion of TiO₂ based thermite systems with a complex reducing agent (Al and Ca) under the influence of overload are revealed. The thermite system includes a basic composition whose combustion products are target elements (Ti, Al, Nb, and Cr) and a high-energy additive (CaO₂, Al, and Ca) for ensuring high-temperature combustion. With the introduction of an energy additive, the system acquires the ability to burn. With a sufficient content of this additive, the combustion products (Ti_xAl_y and Al₂O₃ and CaO oxide solutions) can melt. As the fraction of Ca in the base mixture composition increases, the burning rate drops and the reduction completeness of the target oxides increases. With an optimal ratio of Ca and Al in the mixture, the yield of the target elements in the ingot is close to the calculated value.