Session
Technical Session X: Advanced Technologies II
Abstract
A bi-propellant thruster system based on the green propellants, nitrous oxide and propane, combines good storage density with specific impulse performance comparable to conventional space storable propellants. The non-toxic and self-pressurizing properties of nitrous oxide and propane yield a simple, safe, yet high performance system, suitable for CubeSats requiring moderate to large Delta-V maneuvers. The HT-PM400.10 propulsion system utilizes these propellants in a 2U subsystem, intended for 6U or larger satellites. Experimental results show that the system is capable of providing a total Delta-V of 231 m/s from a 1 N thruster. The thruster has demonstrated a combustion efficiency in excess of 94 % and peak-to-peak combustion stability of 1.3 % of the mean combustion pressure.
Experimental Evaluation of a Green Bi-Propellant Thruster for Small Satellite Applications
A bi-propellant thruster system based on the green propellants, nitrous oxide and propane, combines good storage density with specific impulse performance comparable to conventional space storable propellants. The non-toxic and self-pressurizing properties of nitrous oxide and propane yield a simple, safe, yet high performance system, suitable for CubeSats requiring moderate to large Delta-V maneuvers. The HT-PM400.10 propulsion system utilizes these propellants in a 2U subsystem, intended for 6U or larger satellites. Experimental results show that the system is capable of providing a total Delta-V of 231 m/s from a 1 N thruster. The thruster has demonstrated a combustion efficiency in excess of 94 % and peak-to-peak combustion stability of 1.3 % of the mean combustion pressure.
