Gas generants

Abstract

Gas generant compositions which include at least one transition metal complex of ethylenediamine 5,5'-bitetrazole and gas generant compositions which include a fuel material of cobalt III nitrate complex with ammonia or water ligands, a burn rate catalyst of copper bis ethylenediamine dinitrate, and an oxidizer of basic copper nitrate are provided to produce or results in compositions having relatively high burn rates. Also provided are corresponding or associated gas generating devices and inflatable vehicle occupant safety restraint systems and methods of gas generation.

Description

field of invention

[0001] The present invention relates generally to gas generant materials, such as are used to inflate automotive inflatable restraint air bag cushions. More specifically, how to increase the rate at which such materials burn or otherwise react. Background of the invention

[0002] Gas generants or generant materials can be used in many different fields. An important use of such compositions is the restraint of occupants while driving. For example, it is known to protect vehicle occupants with cushions or airbags, such as "airbag cushions". When a vehicle suddenly slows down, such as in a crash, the gas inflates or expands the bumper or air bag. In such systems, the airbag cushion is typically placed in a deflated and folded state to minimize space requirements. Such systems typically also include one or more crash sensors mounted on the frame or body to detect sudden deceleration of the vehicle and trigger activation of the system via electronic contro...

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