Contamination Effects on Catalyst Life.
Abstract
The objective of this program was to determine the levels of selected hydrazine contaminants which adversely affect the life of small monopropellant hydrazine catalytic engines. The poisoning effects of twelve hydrazine contaminants on Shell 405 catalyst were investigated through flow reactor tests and liquid-phase activity measurements. Flow reactor results indicated that sulfur was the worst contaminant. The metal impurities caused moderate degradation through physical covering of the catalyst surface. General catalyst deactivation resulted from sulfur, sodium and zinc contamination, while iron and chromium acted to block the injector flow. Engine evaluations of 1-lb thrust level were performed with most detrimental contaminants. The extent of degradation observed with these impurities was approximately directly proportional to that observed in laboratory tests. This indicates that the deactivating contaminants would cause damage in almost any engine.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1974
- Accession Number
- ADA003418
Entities
People
- G. L. M. Christopher
- S. Russell