In situ synthesis of energetic metal–organic frameworks [Cd5(Mtta)9]n film exhibiting excellent ignition capability

Energetic thin films have been widely used in the field of microscale energy-demanding systems. In this work, a novel energetic metal–organic frameworks [Cd5(Mtta)9]n film is fabricated on the copper substrate through an in situ synthesis method for the first time. A 5-methyl tetrazole/copper complex is deposited to modify the copper substrate through an electrochemical-assisted strategy. The [Cd5(Mtta)9]n film is then integrated on the surface of modified copper substrate by an in situ reaction of acetonitrile with sodium azide and cadmium nitrate. The morphological, structural and compositional information of the [Cd5(Mtta)9]n film is characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and infrared spectrum. The thermostabilities of the [Cd5(Mtta)9]n film are studied by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry. In addition, the preliminary laser ignition test is conducted by using pulsed Nd:YAG laser. The results show that the as-prepared [Cd5(Mtta)9]n film possesses a rod-like topography. The flame height and ignition duration of [Cd5(Mtta)9]n film reach 9.0 mm and 220 µs, respectively, revealing that [Cd5(Mtta)9]n film is an excellent ignition material. This research opens up a new avenue for the preparation of novel energetic films, which provides potential applications on microelectromechanical systems to achieve functional nanoenergetics-on-a-chip.