RETRACTED ARTICLE: Design and performance prediction of a 5mN HAN monopropellant microthruster

Keanhow Cheah, Jitkai Chin, Kaiseng Koh

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedingBook Chapterpeer-review

Abstract

An initial design study of 5mN hydroxylammonium nitrate (HAN) monopropellant microthruster has been performed. Soft lithography utilizing polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as structural material is proposed to fabricate micronozzle in a microfluidic device. The method promises the potential in integrating propellant feeding system and micronozzle through microfluidics and MEMS technology. Electrolytic decomposition of HAN with comparatively low ignition temperature is identified as a suitable mechanism in producing thrust in the system. A numerical analysis has been conducted in predicting the performance of microthruster for a range of Reynolds number, Reε65-1200. It is found that the optimum expander half-angle for current micronozzle design is approximately 17.5 degree for Reε1200. The optimum angle is 20 degree for the case of nozzle throat Reε800. Simulation results also indicate that the performance of HAN monopropellant-based microthruster is comparable to that using hydrogen peroxide and hydrazine while it is more environmental friendly.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationICCET 2010 - 2010 International Conference on Computer Engineering and Technology, Proceedings
PublisherIEEE Computer Society
PagesV5148-V5152
ISBN (Print)9781424463503
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2010
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameICCET 2010 - 2010 International Conference on Computer Engineering and Technology, Proceedings
Volume5

Keywords

  • CFD
  • Electrolytic ignition
  • MEMS microthruster
  • Microfluidics
  • Micropropulsion
  • Microsatellites

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Computer Science

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