Encapsulated Liquid Monopropellant Ammunition Feasibility Study
Abstract
Ammunition containing bulk loaded monopropellants have the characteristics of low flame temperature, high energy, reduced smoke and flash, and reduced fouling and longer barrel life. There is one disadvantage, however, that has prevented exploitation of these good attributes. Liquid monopropellants do not burn stably under the conditions existing in bulk loaded cartridges. High and erratic pressures occur accompanied by high frequency, high amplitude pressure excursions. Extensive experimentation has not solved this problem. The results of this study show that the problems of bulk loaded monopropellant can be overcome by encapsulation of the monopropellant into small spheres. This encapsulation yields very repeatable and uniform initial surface area similar to conventional smokeless ball powder. Proper ignition and the resulting combustion surrounding the liquid droplets prevents agglomeration into a large unstable bulk. Stable, uniform, and repeatable propellant combustion was the result. The results of a series of test firings were evaluated for the effects of alkyl nitrate mixture ratio, capsule size, capsule wall materials, primers, solid propellant booster levels, and cartridge case volume on round repeatability. Computer studies indicated that the postulated burning process was achieved, and it was concluded that a conventional cartridge case loaded with encapsulated monopropellant was feasible. It is recommended that further research be completed to maximize capsule payloads and improve capsule wall energy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0859272
Entities
People
- Robert K. Lund