Advanced MMH-Based Gel Fuel

ORBITEC and SRI propose to continue the development of an advanced gel propellant fuel based on monomethyl hydrazine (MMH) that provides higher volumetric specific impulse, incorporates a combustible particulate gellant, and has desirable stability and aging characteristics. To improve volumetric Isp, a performance-enhancing compound can be added in conjunction with existing polymeric gelling agents, or new high-energy gellants can be used. Various solid-fuel additives will be considered to provide additional performance benefits by increasing density specific impulse. Atomization can be improved by adding surfactants to modify the MMH surface tension. The resulting MMH-based gel fuel is expected to meet the demands of at least 25 lbf-s/in3 increase in volumetric specific impulse, minimum exhaust signature, high stability, and long life required for advanced propellant gels. Proposed Phase II work includes fuel gel synthesis, physical characterization, hot-fire testing, analysis, and down-select to a final formulation.