The Aerospace Corporation Shell 405 Catalyst Evaluation Program. Volume 1. Physical and Catalytic Properties

Results are presented for series of physical tests performed on Shell 405 catalysts and carriers to determine the principal attrition and loss mechanisms occurring during motor operation. It is shown that the development of free space in a reaction chamber can lead to serious attrition losses. Results of vibration, mechanical crushing, thermal shock, and thermal expansion measurements are also discussed. A laboratory technique was devised for studying catalytic activity. A thermocouple was used to measure the temperature transient occurring when a drop of hydrazine contacts catalyst. The effect of the initial pressure vacuum to 760 torr and temperature 20 to 75C on the reaction induced temperature change was studied and is discussed. Some correlations with motor performance data are made.