Work

Numerical Simulation of Paraffin Energetic Performance Enhanced by KNO3, NH4NO3, Al, Ti, and Stearic Acid for Hybrid Rocket Applications

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the energy performance of paraffin-based hybrid fuels enhanced with potassium nitrate (KNO3), ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), and stearic acid additives. The fuels were evaluated using thermochemical calculations via ProPEP3 Version 1.0.3.0 software, revealing significant improvements in specific impulse (Isp) and combustion temperature. While formulations with nitrates and aluminum exhibited noticeable increases in combustion efficiency and thermal output, titanium-containing mixtures provided moderate improvements. Stearic acid improved fuel processability and provided a stable burning profile without significant energy penalties. These findings demonstrate that suitable combinations of additives can substantially improve the energy output of paraffin-based hybrid fuels, making them more viable for aerospace propulsion applications.

Source: Fuels

DOI: 10.3390/fuels6030054

Authors: Grigore Cican, Alexandru Mitrache

Institutions: Romanian Research and Development Institute for Gas Turbines, Universitatea Națională de Știință și Tehnologie Politehnica București

Language: English

Topic: Rocket and propulsion systems research

Subfield: Aerospace Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,207