Motor Case Disintegration as FCO Mitigation

Fast cook-off (FCO) mitigation solutions rely on a system approach including propellant chemistry and packaging modifications. Case venting is recommended so that in a fire, pressure is unable to build to a critical point. Cornerstone Research Group Inc. (CRG) and a commercial partner propose to integrate an existing thermoplastic toughening agent containing core-shell nanothermite into a composite rocket motor case as a FCO mitigation system. The solution will spontaneously vent the propellant in an entire rocket motor case in the event of a propellant fire making it applicable for both small and large diameter motors. The concept leverages CRGs extensive advanced composite manufacturing expertise, scalable nanocomposite fabrication technology, and Insensitive Munition (IM) mitigation experience as well as the commercial partners experience as a major energetic material and system manufacturer. The resulting system will offer a scalable solution for FCO mitigation that can be used with a variety of composite manufacturing techniques. No active sensing is required as the materials combust rapidly in fire while remaining insensitive in normal storage, handling, and use conditions. The system will remain inert to aero heating. Because the materials are also toughening agents, the case will not suffer weak spots or have parasitic weight penalties. Approved for Public Release 14-MDA-8047 (14 Nov 14)