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Praestrigiator
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What is the pressure at which ammonium perchlorate composite propellant spontaneously begins deflagration?
Yeah, I tried googling it but to no avail. I know NASA and JPL will probably take a while to reply to any email or message. Too bad Fermilab is the only science place near me, I'm sure they'd be irritated by being asked questions irrelevant to their field.Borek said:If google doesn't help, try asking at NASA or JPL, they should know such things.
APCP (ammonium perchlorate composite propellant) autoignition is a process in which the propellant in a rocket motor is ignited by a spontaneous deflagration (rapid burning) caused by a sudden increase in pressure inside the motor.
Pressure deflagration starts when the pressure inside the rocket motor reaches a critical level, causing the propellant to rapidly heat up and ignite. This can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as high ambient temperatures, structural failure, or accidental impacts.
The main risk associated with APCP autoignition is a loss of control of the rocket due to an unexpected and sudden increase in thrust. This can lead to a catastrophic failure of the rocket and potential harm to people and property in the vicinity.
Scientists and engineers take several precautions to prevent APCP autoignition, such as carefully designing and testing the rocket motor to ensure it can withstand high pressures and temperatures. They also use thermal insulation and cooling systems to regulate the temperature inside the motor and prevent spontaneous ignition.
Yes, APCP autoignition can be intentionally used in rocket propulsion. This technique is commonly used in solid rocket motors, where the propellant is designed to have a high autoignition temperature to ensure safe handling and storage. The sudden increase in pressure can also provide a more controlled and efficient ignition of the motor.