Optimizing porosity of the catalyst for hydrogen peroxide based thrusters

Abstract

The texture of the catalyst support is a crucial factor for H2O2 decomposition due to the expansion of H2O2 in monopropellant thrusters, which can lead to overpressure and catalyst breakage. Therefore, alumina supports with 5 wt%, 10 wt%, and 15 wt% microcrystalline cellulose templates were studied to create macropores. MIP and SEM analysis showed that microcrystalline cellulose template increases the macropore fraction. Low-concentration H2O2 decomposition experiments revealed that over 10 wt% microcrystalline cellulose prevented catalyst breakage. Additionally, the thermal durability of the catalyst was studied at different calcination temperatures. Alumina with 15 wt% microcrystalline cellulose and a 900 °C calcination temperature exhibited the highest fracture strength and suitable reaction kinetics. The catalysts were tested in high-concentration H2O2 monopropellant thruster. The results demonstrated enhancement in catalyst size retention, pressure stability, and pressure drop. Introducing macropores through microcrystalline cellulose addition overcomes unstable thruster performance and it extends catalyst lifespan in H2O2 monopropellant thrusters’ applications. © 2023 Elsevier B.V.