Factorial analysis of the influence of both water and oxygen on extruded double base rocket propellant decomposition

The decomposition mechanisms of double base rocket propellants are well known and reported, but the influence of atmospheric conditions such as water and oxygen is poorly understood. In this work, the influence of water and oxygen on an extruded double base (EDB) rocket propellant aged between 70 and 100°C was examined using heat flow calorimetry. The results show that increased water content and higher oxygen concentration both lead to elevated heat flow. The activation energy (Ea), which was determined using the Friedman differential isoconversional method, showed that Ea decreases with higher water content, suggesting water acts as a catalyst, while lower oxygen concentration increases Ea, indicating slower decomposition. Factorial design analysis confirmed that both factors negatively impact Ea, with oxygen being the more significant factor while the water/oxygen interaction (AB) on the Ea is negligible. This research provides critical insight into the factors affecting the stability and shelf life of rocket propellants, which can lead to improved formulations and storage conditions, augmenting the safety and performance of EDB rocket propulsion systems. This research provides critical insight into the factors affecting the stability and shelf life of rocket propellants, which can lead to improved formulations and storage conditions, augmenting the safety and performance of EDB rocket propulsion systems.