Computational fluid dynamics studies of nuclear rocket performance
Abstract
A CFD analysis of a low pressure nuclear rocket concept is presented with the use of an advanced chemical kinetics, Navier-Stokes code. The computations describe the flow field in detail, including gas dynamic, thermodynamic and chemical properties, as well as global performance quantities such as specific impulse. Computational studies of several rocket nozzle shapes are conducted in an attempt to maximize hydrogen recombination. These Navier-Stokes calculations, which include real gas and viscous effects, predict lower performance values than have been reported heretofore.
- Publication:
-
NASA STI/Recon Technical Report N
- Pub Date:
- June 1994
- Bibcode:
- 1994STIN...9516066S
- Keywords:
-
- Computational Fluid Dynamics;
- Dynamic Characteristics;
- Hydrogen Recombinations;
- Nuclear Propulsion;
- Reaction Kinetics;
- Rocket Nozzles;
- Flow Distribution;
- Navier-Stokes Equation;
- Real Gases;
- Thermodynamic Properties;
- Viscous Flow;
- Spacecraft Propulsion and Power