Nanoparticle Fuel Additives for Enhanced Propulsion

ABSTRACT: Systems and Materials Research Corporation (SMRC) proposes to produce energetic nanomaterials to be used as additives in hydrocarbon based jet and liquid rocket fuels. Using our extensive experience in nanomaterials synthesis, processing, and incorporation, SMRC will synthesize or modify nanoparticles with surface treatments to maximize their dispersability in liquid fuels. The resistance of the materials to form large colloids is paramount and will be determined using accelerating aging techniques. The energy density of fuels with these new nanoadditives will be studied by bomb calorimeter and fiber supported droplet combustion studies. After down selection, successful candidates will be tested using a small rocket motor test stand. The results of these tests will yield a preliminary validation to the concept that nanoenergetic additives can positively affect the energy density of hydrocarbon-based jet and rocket fuels. BENEFIT: If nanoenergetic additives are proven to increase the output of jet engines and rocket motors, SMRC will be prepared to transition this technology to both military and civilian aircraft. If these same improvements can be applied to jet engines and rocket motors, the Department of Defense (DoD) and civilian air carriers will be significantly impacted, not only by decreased fuel consumption but also by decreased emissions. In addition, the same materials may also work in terrestrial diesel engines since a limited number of references have demonstrated improvements in diesel engine performance including an increase in power and a decrease in solid particle emissions by incorporating nanomaterials.