Pulsed Photolytic Density Scaling Experiment for BiF
Abstract
A large volume density scaling experiment has been devised and conducted for BiF(AO+) generated by the energy storage molecule NF(a1 Delta). Krypton fluoride excimer laser photolysis has been used to initiate reactive mixtures of NF2, a1 Delta, and trimethyl bismuth (TMB). The goals of the experiment are to perform density scaling in BiF(AO+) to the level of measurable gain and to identify and study kinetics issues in the elevated density regime. The BiF(AO+) density observed to date is around 10 to the 11th power molecules/ Cc. The yield of NF (a1 Delta) from NF2 photolysis determined by absolute radiometry is lower than that predicted on the basis of previous NF2 photolysis experiments. The low BiF(AO+) density observed in the experiment can result from the absolute calibration of the photomultiplier and its optical configuration. Another source of uncertainty is the photophysics of TMB under the influence of the present high-power, long-pulse excimer laser. BiF(AO+) vibrational and rotational temperatures have been observed for several conditions, and the dependence of the (BiF(A)) on TMB and SF6 has been measured. The predicted usefulness of SF6 as a high heat capacity diluent for controlling heat release has been demonstrated. Keywords: Chemical lasers, Bismuth fluoride, Nitrogen fluoride, Chemical kinetics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA208688
Entities
People
- C. E. Gardner
- J. F. Bott
- J. M. Herbelin
- R. F. Heidner
- R. Hofland Jr.
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation