Joseph Lefkowitz
Abstract:
The hypergolic ignition response to oxidizer droplet properties is an important consideration for oxidizer injector design in hybrid rocket motors. Hence, the present work focused on hypergolic ignition characterization as a function of droplet properties and impact dynamics for a promising propellant. The propellant for the present work consisted of rocket grade hydrogen peroxide (RGHP) as oxidizer, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) as fuel and sodium borohydride (NaBH 4) as the hypergolic additive embedded in the HDPE matrix. This propellant was chosen for this detailed study since it showed promising results in prior studies, exhibiting low (< 10 ms) ignition delays.