An Infra-Red Investigation of HAN (Hydroxylammonium Nitrate)-Based Liquid Propellants
Abstract
This report deals with the use of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for study of the hydroxylammonium nitrate (HAN), aqueous liquid propellants. Several subjects are addressed. The feasibility of total assay of propellant, involving the simultaneous analysis of all of the components is demonstrated. A quantitative method for determination of HAN concentration that is suitable for continuous on-line use at a production facility is described. Finally, the structure of HAN-water mixtures as a function of concentration is explored in detail. HAN is highly soluble, producing homogeneous mixtures at room temperature with salt concentrations in excess of 16 mole/1. Changes in the vibrational spectra of all three components, HA(+), NO3(-), and water, provide a consistent picture of the interactions between these species. The nitrate spectrum is most sensitive to interactions between the species present because distinctive bands due to ion-pairing and hydration are observed. Changes in the nitrate spectrum characteristic of ion hydration are seen in dilute solution and, as concentration increases, features attributable to ion-pairs become evident and eventually dominate the spectra. The spectra of the other components provide evidence that the ion-paired species is strongly hydrogen bonded via the HA(+) O-H group.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA187226
Entities
People
- Koon N. Wong
- Nathan Klein
Organizations
- Ballistic Research Laboratory