Throttling Tactical Propellant (TTP)

Exo-Atmospheric Technologies, LLC, (EXO) working with our research partner, Zucrow Laboratories at Purdue University (Purdue), will develop a new high exponent throttling propellant based on high performance oxidizers possessing low detonation sensitivity that will deliver a 1.3 hazard classification. EXO will engineer a new propellant formulation. The goal is to produce a propellant that meets a 1.3 hazard classification (tested for friction and impact sensitivity) to drastically increase specific impulse, and modifying the mixture with additives to tune sensitivity. EXO and Purdue will jointly specify the formulation and determine its propulsive performance using analytical tools. Next, Purdue will determine the processing steps needed to formulate the propellant and will then cast-cure small samples to be used for sensitivity testing and strand burner testing. Friction, impact, and Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) testing will be conducted to provide initial indications of hazard classification. Next, Purdue will conduct strand burner testing in a high-pressure bomb to determine the exponent. Purdue will then provide the formulation to EXO and EXO will mix small samples in-house to be used for a simple hot-fire demonstration at high pressure and low pressure to demonstrate combustion stability over a large range of pressures. Both motors will minimize energetic quantities (10 lbf thrust or less with burn durations of <3 seconds). Approved for Public Release | 25-MDA-12052 (27 Mar 25)