Solid propellant selection and characterization, NASA SPACE VEHICLE DESIGN CRITERIA (Chemical)

The techniques of propellant selection and characterization and the compromises that may be forced on the designer by the change of a propellant parameter are discussed. Rules for the selection of a general propellant type are presented. The characterization of various propellant properties isthen approached parameter by parameter. Tailoring pitfalls and compromises are identified whenever possible, and appropriate cross references areused. Related design criteria monographs frequently are cited for a more detailed treatment of the topic under discussion. A list of source references isprovided. These references, coupled with established texts in the field, should give the depth of knowledge necessary to the designer to aid in the selection of the most nearly optimum propellant for the design application.