Gel bi-propulsion systems can be used as bi-propellant systems utilizing advanced energy management for increasing the performance of missiles. Improved Divert and Attitude Control (DACS) technology is needed to address insensitive munition and safety requirements while maximizing the KV (kill vehicle) capability and or reducing the KV weight. In order to enhance the capabilities of DACS propellant subsystem, a high energy-density bipropellant gel fuel is proposed. MACH I, Inc. plans to utilize selected amorphous carbon particulates, new technology nano-carbon fibers and platelets, Glycidal Azide Polymers (GAP), and dimethylaminoethylazide (DMAZ) to establish the feasibility of energetic enhancement. MACH I will team with Aerojet, Inc. for selecting, preparing, testing, and evaluating potential gel fuel candidates. The following major advantages are expected to accrue: · REDUCED TOXICITY FUEL---Gelled fuel formulations will be prepared having low toxicity and reduced exposure risk to personnel during use. · HIGH ENERGY-DENSITY FUEL GEL---Improvement upon the performance characteristics of a MMH gel baseline formulation will be demonstrated. · FLOW PROPERTIES TAILORABILITY---In order to successfully transition improved fuel gel candidates to feasibility and engineering demonstrations in Phase II, the capability of tailoring flow properties of candidate fuel gel formulations is a critical requirement of this research. Anticipated Benefits/Commercial Applications: Improvement of gel for bi-propellant systems is an area of high interest due to concerns over Hazard Class 1.1 Solid Propellant Formulations as compared to those better conforming to the Hazard Assessment Tests (MIL-STD-2105) for insensitive munitions (MI) by optimizing fuel gels via the application of particulates in their formulations. Particulated gels can be shown to replace detonable munitions without attendant hazards and provide performance improvements. Performance improvements in tactical scenarios result in greater lethality, accuracy, farther standoff, reduced handling hazards or incidents or combinations thereof. Additionally, while maintaining IM characteristics, gelled fuels may also be formulated to improve upon toxicity concerns of conventional liquid and solid formulations. One such liquid, DMAZ, is believed to be extremely promising as compared to MMH at given particulate type and loading levels.
Keywords: Fuel Gels, Energetic Enhancement, Gel Rheology, Bi-propulsion Gel System, Gelled Propellants, Combustion Efficiency, Rocket Fuels, MMH & DMAZ
