Low Thrust Devices Velocity Control Experimental Program. Catalytic Decomposition of Hydrazine
Abstract
For current applications requiring multiple engine operation normally a bipropellant start is used, wherein the catalyst bed is brought to the operating temperature by the heat released from the reaction of hydrazine with an oxidizer. In order to eliminate the added complexity of the propellant start, a catalyst capable of repetitive initiation of decomposition is required. The general nature of the required catalyst is largely determined by the rate controlling step and the mechanism of the actual decomposition reaction. Current immediate objectives are development of catalysts which are active toward catalytic decomposition of hydrazine; and the chemical modification of hydrazine to make it more susceptible toward catalytic decomposition. Catalytic activity will be evaluated by means of differential thermal analysis. Solutions of hydrazine are suggested as an additional technique for a more rapid conversion of hydrazine to decomposition products. It is recommended that hydrazine azide-hydrazine systems be included in any studies on the catalytic decomposition of hydrazine.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 30, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0264852
Entities
People
- L. Schieler
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation