Surface reaction model for catalyzed composite solid propellants

The Beckstead et al. (1970) model's extensions to account for catalytic effect do not adequately predict composite solid propellant burning rate variations. Experimental studies indicate that heat release varies with pressure, oxidizer particle size, and catalytic concentration. The present study incorporates a variable surface and subsurface heat release into the model, and shows the model to be capable of predicting the effects of catalysts and oxidizer particle size at low as well as at rocket operating pressures. (O.C.)