Abstract: A technique for forming an energetic ink is provided. The technique includes forming a non-reactive layer by disposing a composite ink on a substrate, the composite ink including a polymer binder that is solvent-permeable and porous fuel particles (e.g. porous silicon particles). Mixing, printing, casting, assembling, or otherwise handling the inert composite can occur while it remains non-reactive. Subsequently, the technique can then include depositing a liquid solution of solid oxidizer onto the non-reactive layer, which can permeate the binder and impregnate the porous fuel particles with a solid oxidizer, activating the composite ink. In this manner, components with the composite ink can be partially and safely fabricated/assembled while the ink is inert, and the ink can then be activated at a later point in a manufacturing process.