Gas Phase Ignition of a Composite Solid Propellant Subjected to Radiant Heating

Abstract

—Ignition characteristics of a composite solid propellant subjected to radiative heating a: the surface has been theoretically investigated. Consequent to irradiation, the propellant pyrolizes producing fuel and oxidizer vapours which diffuse into the adjacent gas phase. The pyrolyzed fuel undergoes homogeneous gas phase reactions with the external oxidizer as well as the oxidizer evolved at the surface leading to ignition. The partial differential equations describing the processes of diffusion and chemical reaction have been numerically solved on a computer. The model predicts physically realistic behaviour.

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Notes on contributors

R. K. KUMAR

Present Address: Whiteshell Nuclear Research Establishment, Atomic Energy of Canada, Pinawa, Manitoba, Canada.