Liquid Propellant Explosive Hazards. Volume I. Technical Documentary Report
Abstract
Project PYRO consisted of a comprehensive program to determine the blast and thermal characteristics of the three liquid propellant combinations in most common use in military missiles and space vehicles; liquid oxygen-RP-1 (LO2/RP-1), liquid oxygen - liquid hydrogen (LO2/LH2), and nitrogen tetroxide/50% unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine - 50% hydrazine (N2O4/50% UDMH - 50% N2H4). During the course of the program some 270 tests were conducted with these propellant combinations on weight scales ranging from 200 lb to 100,000 lb. This basic explosive test program was supplemented by analytical and statistical studies, laboratory-scale experimental studies, simulation tests with inert propellant combinations and a series of high-explosive tests for calibration and evaluation purposes. The basic test program was designed to investigate the explosive characteristics of the three propellant combinations for the most credible ways that the propellants might accidentally come into contact with each other and result in a significant explosion. The results of the basic test program in conjunction with the analytical studies and prior information regarding liquid propellant explosive behavior were used as the basis for developing methods for predicting the blast and thermal environment that would be expected for any given missile or space vehicle system and any specified failure mode. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0855086
Entities
People
- A. B. Willoughby
- C. Wilton
- J. Mansfield