Fiber Optic Raman Spectroscopy Propellant Inspection System

To address the Navy’s need for a compact boost motor sensor that will collect the data used to infer the stabilizer content as well as other energetic, low molecular weight, organic compounds from the propellant in a solid rocket motor assembly, Intellisense Systems, Inc. proposes to develop a new Fiber Optic Raman Spectroscopy Propellant Inspection (FORS) system. FORS is based on two innovations: (a) novel integration of compact fiber optic Raman spectrometer capable of quantitative measurements of concentrations of stabilizer and plasticizer in the propellant; and (b) novel implementation of the sensor insertion system equipped with video and three-dimensional (3D) scanning sensors supporting visual and automatic position measurement feedback for safe insertion of FORS into the solid rocket motor assemblies. As a result, the FORS system will provide a compact, automatic, and accurate propellant stabilizer sensor and its insertion system that will be used for propellant health assessment of solid rocket motors. In Phase I, Intellisense will demonstrate the feasibility of the FORS system by developing its technical concept and general architecture, designing and fabricating a laboratory-scale prototype, performing a laboratory-scale demonstration of its capability to measure stabilizer and plasticizer concentrations, and demonstrating the functionality of the sensor insertion system. In Phase I Option, we will prepare plans to develop the FORS prototype in Phase II and coordinate with Navy SBIR liaisons on key technical requirements, data to be measured, size of the sensor, size and functionality of the insertion system, application method, power, and data storage/transmission needs. In Phase II, Intellisense will design and develop a working prototype of the FORS system based on the concepts from Phase I. The design will be sized to ensure that the sensor can pass through the throat of the third-stage solid rocket nozzle and fit the confined spaces of the propellant grain geometry. We will complete the tests of the prototype to validate operation and feasibility. We will also design tests to emulate the installation, sensing, data collection, and removal of the system. Material compatibility tests will be conducted to ensure survivability and compatibility with rocket propellants including compliance with HERO (Hazard of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance) requirements for on-shore use.