Solid propellants for rockets: Theoretical evaluation of the performance of the potassium nitrate/sugar mixture

Abstract

Rocket propulsion is a very challenged field in science. To design a solid-propellant rocket motor a lot of factors must be considered because the compounds used in the propellant formulation are explosives. This work uses computer simulation to predict the performance of a solid rocket propellant based on the results of specific impulse, characteristic exhaust velocity, combustion temperature and combustion reaction products of potassium nitrate/sugar (KNSu). The results demonstrated that characteristic exhaust velocity and combustion temperature presents values similar to the literature, while the specific impulse showed lower values when compared with the literature values. The reaction products from KNSu combustion are mostly carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and water. The simulation used to predict the performance of a solid rocket propellant is a safe and viable alternative to be used to design rocket motors.