Ammonium Nitrate as an Oxidant for Composite Propellants. Part 1. Preliminary Considerations
Abstract
The physical properties of ammonium nitrate are discussed from the point of view of its use as an oxidant in composite propellants. Some discrepancies in the literature are pointed out and an attempt is made to explain them. The maximum specific impulse obtainable with a simple ammonium nitrate/fuel mixture is about 223 sec. The advantage of using oxygenated fuels is calculated for cases where, because of rheological considerations, more than 5 or 6 per cent of fuel must be used. Slight caking of ammonium nitrate may occur at relative humidities less than the theoretical value for water absorption and it is suggested that this may be due either to occluded moisture or to welding between crystals in contact. Gross pick-up of moisture occurs at relative humidities above about 50 per cent, so that control of humidity during the manufacture and filling of composite propellants containing ammonium nitrate is essential.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1954
- Accession Number
- ADA474004
Entities
People
- P. R. Foreeman