Ballistic and thermomechanical characterisation of paraffin-based hybrid rocket fuels loaded with light metal hydrides

Abstract Rocket fuels are subjected to intense in-flight inertial, pressure and thermal loads that has drastic effect on its performance. In order achieve optimal results, we require functionally-graded solid propellant (FGSPs), specifically designed for each flight condition. A novel series of FGSPs were developed using Paraffin Wax (as fuel) Hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene binder); treated with Dioctyl adipate (C22H42O4), Toluene diisocyante (C9H6N2O2) Glycerol (C3H8O3). These further doped light metal hydride nano-powders including Lithium aluminium (LiAlH4) Magnesium (MgH2). The investigated thermo-physical ballistic performance several characterisation techniques. hydride-doped exhibited lower viscosity fostered entrainment-aided combustion. featured solid-like behaviour makes them more stable in phase less susceptible loads. Thermal revealed comparatively resistant towards pyrolysis thereby producing greater char-yield. Eventually, combustion characteristics evaluated by performing static firings the FGSPs. significant enhancement regression compared base fuel conventional HTPB fuel. MgH2-doped FGSP maximum enhancements up 224% 353% as HTPB, respectively.