Development of Lightweight Low-Cost PDEs for MKV Applications

"This SBIR Phase I proposal is aimed at developing lightweight low-cost miniature Pulsed Detonation Engines (PDEs) to be used as divert engines for Miniature Kinetic Kill Vehicles (MKVs). The PDE is a very-small-scale propulsion system, with no movingparts in the power production section and producing higher specific impulse than conventional rockets because of its constant-volume, nonsteady operating cycle. Our approach is based on developing unique structural components that will take advantage ofthe properties of PDEs employed as divert motors in an MKV system. The prior experience of Enigmatics in the design and development of miniature PDE systems has led to the recent demonstration of a miniature PDE running at detonation frequencies up to 250Hz. Our experimental and theoretical data point to the possibility of constructing small divert PDEs from unconventional materials. The proposed effort will systematically explore the use of lightweight materials for miniature divert PDEs that can beincorporated in MKVs. In Phase I we will study materials and manufacturing methods that can be used to construct small divert PDE motors. In Phase II we will design, fabricate, and test PDEs operating with high-power-density fuels and made of lightweightlow-cost materials that are compatible with MKV requirements. Low-cost manufacturing of lightweight divert PDE systems will enable mass production of these systems and permit simple low-co