Kinetic Mechanisms for Ionization and Afterburning Suppression
Abstract
Currently, very little data exists detailing the chemical mechanisms associated with the addition of suppressants such as Potassium sulfate or Potassium nitrate and their impact on the production of ions in either typical laboratory flames or solid propellant exhaust flows. On an empirical basis, potassium-bearing salts (Potassium sulfate, Potassium nitrate, Potassium chloride, etc.) have been found to be among the most general and most effective suppressants. The addition of such alkali metal salts to the plume gases, However, has been observed to increase ion/electron concentrations, which in turn may significantly affect the radar cross section and reduce the motor's performance (e.g., by producing a lower specific impulse). This report summarizes the results of a recent analytical investigation into the influence of the addition of potassium salts on both the inhibition effects and the production electrons in a Hydrogen/Air flame.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA189219
Entities
People
- David P. Weaver
- Talwinder Singh