Modeling of Rocket Motor Ballistics for Functionally Graded Propellants

摘要

Functionally Graded Solid Rocket Propellants are being developed at NSWC-lndian Head in conjunction with the University of Maryland. The approach being used treats these propellants as typical Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs), which by definition are structures that possess gradual variations in material behavior that enhance material andlor structural performance. For functionally graded propellants, Twin Screw Extrusion (TSE) processing is used to continuously vary the composition throughout a grain in a controlled manner. As a result, TSE processing allows the burning rates of propellants to be tailored as a function of burning web thickness. This in turn will allow for direct Thrust Magnitude Control (TMC) for a solid rocket motor, which has proven difficult to achieve in the past.