On Simulating the Deflagration of Ethyl Nitrate with a Quasi-One-Dimensional Two-Phase (Liquid–Gas) Model Having Detailed Finite-Rate Chemical Kinetics Mechanisms for Both Phases

Author(s):

Michael J. McQuaid, Chiung-Chu Chen, Jeffrey D. Veals, Christopher Stone, and Rodger Cornell

Abstract:

Toward developing and applying multiphase physics-based deflagration models with better potential to computationally design and screen min-smoke” propellant (MSP) formulations, a quasi-1D, two-phase model of ethyl nitrate’s deflagration that included detailed finite-rate chemical kinetics mechanisms for both phases was formulated and applied. Several hypotheses that have been proposed to explain the discrepancy between measured and model-predicted burning rate values were investigated. We concluded the discrepancy is likely due to a missing or poorly represented chemical kinetics submechanism(s). Providing insight into the relative importance of various mechanisms that determine the rate at which MSPs deflagrate, this study constitutes a step toward establishing models with better potential to design and screen MSP formulations for tactical rocket motor applications.