Atomic hydrogen propellants: Historical perspectives and future possibilities
Abstract
Atomic hydrogen, a very high density free-radical propellant, is anticipated to generate a specific impulse of 600-1500 lb-f sec/lb-mass performance; this may facilitate the development of unique launch vehicles. A development status evaluation is presently given for atomic hydrogen investigations. It is noted that breakthroughs are required in the production, storage, and transfer of atomic hydrogen, before this fuel can become a viable rocket propellant.
- Publication:
-
Presented at the Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit
- Pub Date:
- February 1993
- Bibcode:
- 1993aesc.meetR..11P
- Keywords:
-
- Chemical Propulsion;
- Hydrogen;
- Hydrogen Atoms;
- Launch Vehicles;
- Monatomic Gases;
- Rocket Propellants;
- Spacecraft Propulsion;
- Histories;
- Specific Impulse;
- Spacecraft Propulsion and Power