MASS SPECTROMETRIC DETERMINATION OF DECOMPOSITION GASES FROM M15 AND M17 PROPELLANTS
Abstract
Samples of M15 and M17 propellants were stored at 65.5 C in sealed surveillance bottles. Samples of the decomposition gases were taken at widely separated irregular intervals over a period of 3.5 years and analyzed mass spectrometrically. Infrared was used to confirm the presence of some components. Compared to the initial composition of the air, there is a depletion of O2 in most of the gas samples and a greater-than-normal amount of N2. Some samples contained a very close-to-normal proportion of O2, accompanied by a comparatively high initial pressure. There is apparently no relation between the amount of N2 and the initial pressure. All samples contained CO2, and all but two contained N2O. Of these two, one contained NO, the other did not. Water is present, largely as a re ult of residual moisture which has evaporated from the propellant, although part of it is undoubtedly a decomposition product. Small amounts of acetaldehyde, ethanol, benzene, and other organic molecules were probably also present. Analyses ofh usable samples of these propellants at manufacture. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0278126
Entities
People
- Phillip Rochlin
Organizations
- Picatinny Arsenal