The Potential of Metastable Metallic Atomic Hydrogen
Abstract
Metallic atomic hydrogen (MAH) - if it is metastable - has the potential to be a revolutionary rocket propellant with outstanding specific impulse. This paper discusses the likely limits of MAH metastability, and how these can be accommodated with suitable micro-composite engineering to maintain high pressure containment of the MAH. Manufacturing of MAH is discussed, as well as the form of a suitable rocket engine employing MAH.
- Publication:
-
Journal of the British Interplanetary Society
- Pub Date:
- 2018
- Bibcode:
- 2018JBIS...71...92N
- Keywords:
-
- Metallic hydrogen;
- metastable;
- propellant;
- high Isp;
- microsphere containment;
- afterburning