Abstract
Theoretical rocket performance calculations were carried out for systems using various silicon hydrides up to the pentasilanes as fuels in combination with 98 % pure Rocket Grade Hydrogen Peroxide (RGHP) as the oxidizing agent. Chemical equilibrium compositions in the combustion chamber, nozzle throat and nozzle exit are presented and discussed with respect to variation of the equivalence ratio. Vacuum specific impulses and chamber temperatures are given in order to evaluate the rocket performance and are compared to hydrocarbon/RGHP as well as MMH/NTO bipropellant systems. The highly positive heats of formation of silanes lead to extraordinarily good theoretical performance of the system silanes/RGHP, being superior to the two more conventional systems regarding many aspects. To a certain extent, the heats of formation are also responsible for two additional, complementary possible applications, the use of silicon hydrides as high-energy hydrogen carriers for fuel cells, as well as means to easily produce thin semi-conducting, flexible, large-area silicon films with high mobilities.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Green Propellant for Space Propulsion and 9th International Hydrogen Peroxide Propulsion Conference |
Place of Publication | Noordwijk, The Netherlands |
Edition | SP-635 |
Publication status | Published - 1 Dec 2006 |
Externally published | Yes |
Event | 3rd International Conference on Green Propellant for SpacePropulsion. In combination with the 9th International Hydrogen Peroxide Propulsion Conference - Futuroscope, Poitiers, France Duration: 17 Sept 2006 → 20 Sept 2006 |
Conference
Conference | 3rd International Conference on Green Propellant for SpacePropulsion. In combination with the 9th International Hydrogen Peroxide Propulsion Conference |
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Country/Territory | France |
City | Futuroscope, Poitiers |
Period | 17/09/06 → 20/09/06 |
Keywords
- Bipropellant
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Silanes