Accession Number:

ADA063513

Title:

An Analysis of the Pressure Dependence of Nitrate Ester Thermal Decomposition

Descriptive Note:

Technical rept.

Corporate Author:

ARMY BALLISTIC RESEARCH LAB ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND MD

Personal Author(s):

• Adams, George F.

Report Date:

1978-09-01

Pagination or Media Count:

34.0

Abstract:

An analytical study of the effect of pressure on the rate constant for the unimolecular decomposition of n-propyl nitrate is given. The Rice- Ramsperger-Kassel-Marcus theory is reviewed, and the present application is discussed in detail. Limitations on application of this model are also discussed. It is concluded that the initial decomposition reaction of nitrate esters cannot be the rate determining step for the observed variation of burning rate with pressure.

Descriptors:

• *COMBUSTION
• *ESTERS
• *PYROLYSIS
• *NITRATES
• REACTION KINETICS
• PRESSURE
• MOLECULAR STRUCTURE
• BURNING RATE
• DECOMPOSITION
• PROPYL RADICALS
• SOLID PROPELLANTS

Subject Categories:

• Armor
• Atomic and Molecular Physics and Spectroscopy
• Combustion and Ignition

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE