Development of Green Propellants for Short Range Solid Rocket : an Overview

Abstract

Choice of propellant primarily depends upon tactical applicability and deployment pattern of the weapon system. Solid propellants are preferred in short rockets as it provides major advantages of simplicity and quick deployment time as compared to its liquid counterpart. It has physical features like to quick response time and high reliability make solid propellant first tactical and technical choice for short range rocket. Solid rockets may be propelled by double base, composite or modified double base solid propellant. All these propellants cause smoky exhausts and unsuitable for environment and health hazards for the crew members. Development of green propellant is underway globally for rockets including short range rockets. The works on the green propellant have opened up new avenues and posed challenges for the high energy materials research community. The mechanical and ballistic properties of these formulations should be judiciously evaluated test fired and improved for further recommendation to use in the existing or new weapon systems. The same is equally applicable to short range solid rockets.