Laser Ignition of HAN-Based Monopropellants

This SBIR program will demonstrate the potential of laser ignition to initiate decomposition of the USAF developed HAN-based monopropellants.The interaction of a series of HAN-based monopropellants with electromagnetic radiation over 0.2 microns to 11.0 microns will be characterized to identify the laser wavelength for maximum absorption. Laser ignition experiments in the wavelength region ofmaximum absorption will be performed to establish a relationship between laser power requirement and sample volume for ignition for a given monopropellant. The developed laser ignition technology for HAN-based monopropellants will provide an enabling technology for many military and commercial applications. The commercial applications include communications and imaging satellites, companions to largesatellites to provide surveillance and inspection capabilities such as to monitor and assure proper deployment of solar panels.