Simulations of Energetic Materials for Rocket Propulsion: Obtaining More "Bang for the Buck"
Abstract
Powderized aluminum has long been used as an energetic ingredient in rocket propellant formulations, comprising approximately 15-20% of some conventional ammonium perchlorate solid propellant formulations. However, the performance of aluminum is reduced by the rapid formation of an aluminum oxide overcoat on aluminum particles prior to combustion, which also inhibits efficient burning. Furthermore, formation of the oxide overcoat severely reduces the potential advantages of using high surface-to-volume-ratio ultrafine aluminum particles, which would otherwise have highly desirable properties such as enhanced burn rates. In order to inhibit the rapid formation of an oxide overcoat on the ultrafine aluminum particles without simultaneously degrading performance, it has been proposed to coat the aluminum particles with an energetic material such as HMX.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 29, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA410827
Entities
People
- Dan C. Sorescu
- Donald L. Thompson
- Jerry A. Boatz
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory