Anticipated Interceptor Propulsion Technology Advancements by the Late 1990's

摘要

Advanced components and materials have exciting properties which make theirutilization in solid-propelled propulsion subsystems particularly attractive. All of the factors that influence the substitution of a new material for a traditional one must be carefully examined to derive an accurate prediction of the potential of the new material. For example, in the rocket industry, where the consequences of a propulsion subsystem malfunction can be very disastrous, there is considerable reluctance to incorporate advanced materials without extensive testing and prototyping. The supply of advanced composites, polymers, ceramics, metals provides a major competitive advantage in virtually every propulsion subsystem component. Unfortunately, too often, little attention is given to the exploitation of these materials, and even those materials which have demonstrated very attractive properties in the laboratory have failed to achieve commercial success. Unless this attitude changes, most of the investment in developing the new materials will be wasted. The discussion format that will be followed will be first a discussion of the state-of-the-art of a particular component and will then be followed by a discussion of advanced materials that are applicable as replacements.