Novel Binder Materials for IM-compliant Solid Rocket Motors

The need for munitions insensitive to unplanned stimuli possible in the logistical and operational life cycle of a munition is paramount for safeguarding life and property. To help meet this need, IN Space and Purdue University have developed a new class of composite solid rocket propellant based on an energetic, low toxicity, high strength binder. The Phase I effort demonstrated the feasibility of using the polymer in a moderate solids loading propellant, the propellant’s naturally high burn rate, and the propellants propensity to only produce a burning reaction in a simulated slow cook-off environment. IN Space and Purdue University propose to continue the development of this promising solid propellant to improve the safety and performance of a multitude of U.S. military and civilian solid motor systems. The proposed Phase II research and development program will further mature the binder technology by improving the propellant formulation and evaluating the results in combustion performance tests and mechanical property determination.