Innovative Propulsion Technology for Missile Defense Interceptors

Novel propellant formulations that are the product of an evolutionary rather than a revolutionary approach are needed to achieve MDA objectives within the 2-3 year increments specified by the Phased Adaptive Approach. Gelled propellant technology provides a path toward meeting mission requirements in a fiscally sustainable way over the long term. Gel propulsion systems combine the best characteristics of solid and liquid propellants. Although gel systems store like solid propellant and flow like a liquid when pressurized and have solved some of the problems associated with the toxicity and reactive properties of hypergols, the addition of gelling agents has lead to lackluster combustion efficiency and engine stability issues. In Phase I, C3 Propulsion will synthesize and screen ionic liquids (ILs) as gelling agents for hypergolic propellants. In PhaseII, the effort will be to characterize and evaluate ILbased fuel and oxidizer gels for propulsion testing. We will involve our technology transition partners in the early phase of the project to maximize Phase III potential. Moreover, to drive our technology transition, we work with SBIR technology brokerage services to help align small business innovation with industry technology gaps.