Particle Sizing in a Solid Rocket Motor Using the Management of Scattered Light
Abstract
A previous study discussed the formulation of the theory for the scattering properties in the general case of particles of arbitrary size and refractive index occurring in a polydispersion of finite optical depth. Roberts and Webb concluded that three volume-surface mean diameter (Sauter) D sub 32 of the polydispersion may be determined from the intensity of diffraction scattered light from spherical particles. An experimental investigation was conducted to determine the feasibility of measuring the change in particle size across the exhaust nozzle of a small solid propellant rocket motor. Light scattering measurements were made at small forward angles at the entrance and exit of the exhaust nozzle. The experimental technique was found to be practical, especially if used in conjunction with measurements of transmitted light of multiple wave lengths. However, the determination of D sub 32 is difficult in the motor environment and is biased toward the larger particles in the size distribution. Particle size measurements were in reasonable agreement with sizes determined from collected exhaust products. Recommendations for further improvement of the apparatus are made. Keywords: Diffractively scattered light; Particle sizing.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA156480
Entities
People
- K. Abubakar
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School