DEVELOPMENT AND TEST OF HIGH ENERGY SOLID PROPELLANTS
Abstract
The objective was to conduct theoretical and experimental investigations resulting in the demonstration of beryllium hydride (LMH-2) solid propellants delivering in excess of 280 lbf-sec/lbm at standard conditions. LMH-2 fueled, double-base propellants having theoretical Isp values up to 314 lbf-sec/lbm were developed. LMH-2 loadings as high as 19% were achieved at 60% total volume solids loadings. These propellants gave delivered Isp values in 15-lb-charge (15PC) motors in the range of 280 to 282 lbf-sec/lbm; the first demonstration of the original ARPA Project PRINCIPIA goal. The developed propellants were characterized for sensitivity, thermal stability, processibility, mechanical properties, and explosive classification. Satisfactory processing characteristics were obtained by using surface treatments and grinding to improve bulk density of LMH-2. Seventy Be and 35 LMH-2 15PC motors were fired to develop efficiency correlations based on motor and propellant parameters. The efficiency of Be propellants was found strongly dependent on flame temperature and, to a lesser extent, oxidation ratio. For LMH-2 propellants, flame temperature, oxidation ratio, and motor residence time were controlling factors. Efficiency losses for LMH-2 propellants were related to surface agglomeration of unburned Be. A limited amount of testing indicated a Fl-rich environment is beneficial for LMH-2 combustion.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0378805
Entities
People
- G. R. Gibson
- J. L. Judkins
- J. M. Trowell
- R. F. Keller