IGNITION AND COMBUSTION OF SOLID PROPELLANTS.
Abstract
The spreading rate of the flame zone on the surface of a solid propellant was studied by use of a rarefaction tube. Cold gas flow past the burning zone and across the unburned surface produced high flame spread velocities. The experimental data were interpreted and correlated in terms of two theoretically predicted but experimentally determined parameters. Data obtained by subjecting composite propellant surfaces to thermal radiation fluxes in the range of 2-13 cal/(sec) (sq cm) were adequately explained in terms of a simple ignition theory. A comparison of the ignition characteristics of several types of catalyzed, composite ammonium-based propellants and of propellant type materials formed by pressing AP and non-volatile carbon black or graphite indicated that, in the range of heat fluxes studied, ignition occurs by decomposition of AP followed by a reaction between the decomposition products and solid fuel binder. A proposed ignition system in which a diffusion flame of propane and oxygen is the energy source was studied in small scale tests. Heat fluxes high enough to produce rapid propellant ignition were obtained. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0605729
Entities
People
- Alva D. Baer
- John A. Keller
- Norman W. Ryan
- Rex C. Mitchell
Organizations
- University of Utah