Hydrogen Peroxide Rocket Engine Test Facility Safety

摘要

Hydrogen peroxide >85% (H_2O_2) was one of the post World War II rocket propellant development efforts pursued by the U.S. and former USSR. With the introduction of solid fuels and other liquid propellants in the 60's, H_2O_2 lost its appeals as a viable rocket propellant. However, storable liquid propellants are classified as toxic materials. With its many advantages, including non-toxicity and relative storability, H_2O_2 has recently resurfaced as a rocket propellant within the aerospace industry. Currently, Boeing is re-evaluating mono propellant and bi-propellant applications of H_2O_2 with high energy fuels as alternatives to toxic liquid propellants. Although H_2O_2 is a non-toxic chemical, it is highly sensitive to catalytic decomposition by impurities. The principal hazard to prevent when handling H_2O_2 is the mixing or contact with flammable materials including fabrics and vegetation. The hazards in dealing with hydrogen peroxide at these high concentrations are potential detonation, explosion, uncontrolled decomposition, and fires. Facility design and operation required considerable effort. The major challenge was to ensure the complete cleanliness of the processes handling H_2O_2, while preserving the system reliable, flexible and easy to maintain. Other safety issues that had to be thoroughly addressed included personnel training and emergency response planning.