The invention provides mechanically activated metal fuels for energetic material applications. An exemplary embodiment involves mechanically treating micrometer-sized particles of at least one metal with particles of at least one fluorocarbon to form composite particles containing the at least one metal and the at least one fluorocarbon.

A method to generate dense, multi-cyclic diamondoid fuels from bio-derived sesquiterpenes. This process can be conducted with both heterogeneous and homogenous catalysts and produces the targeted isomers in high yield. The resulting multi-cyclic structures impart significantly higher densities and volumetric net heats of combustion while maintaining low viscosities which allow for use at low temperature/high altitude. Moreover, bio-derived sesquiterpenes can be produced from renewable biomass sources. Use of these fuels will decrease Navy dependence on fossil fuels and will also reduce net carbon emissions.

A liquid electrically initiated and controlled composition comprising an oxidizer, soluble fuel additive(s), and other optional additives to enhance the chemical or ballistic properties, or a combination thereof is disclosed. The liquid composition further comprises stabilizers to enhance thermal stability, sequestrants to minimize deleterious effects of transition metal contaminants, and combustion enhancers maximizing efficiency. Buffers and heavy metal sequestering or complexing agents may be used in combination to achieve the highest degree of thermal stability. Additional ionic co-oxidizers may be added to the liquid composition to stabilize the liquid oxidizer and further depress freezing point. The liquid phase of matter allows flow via pipes or tubes from tanks, reservoirs, or other containers, through metering valves, followed by ignition or combustion modulation when stimulated by electrodes, statically or dynamically.