NACA: Theoretical Performance of Diborane As a Rocket Fuel (NACA Research Memorandum)

A comprehensive, detailed study of the high-performance rocket fuel diborane (B2H6), an unusual chemical that has very high energy per unit weight, and reacts well in rocket engines. It produces an extremely high heat of combustion per unit weight, and thus a very high specific impulse. Diborane (and closely-related fuels, such as pentaborane) have been tested for use in many rockets, (mostly top secret) missiles, satellite propulsion systems, and spacecraft. This document includes in-depth examination of diborane's physical and chemical properties, including: Stability; Corrosiveness with various tank materials; Sensitivity to detonation and temperature; Combustion reactions with many oxidizers. The book has numerous tables, charts, drawings, photos, and almost three pages of technical references for further studies. It's an exceptional reference resource for the rocket scientist, engineer, and technician--professional or "amateur." Tables and charts in this technical report cover all important physical and chemical property of diborane, boron trioxide, and boron trifluoride. Performance calculations are also given, including flame temperature, specific impulse, exhaust gas composition, and other key factors. Toxicity studies are also presented. The text covers the performance and use of diborane with liquid oxygen, liquid fluorine, liquid fluorine oxide, and hydrogen peroxide. This book is a report on some of the most important results of NACA research on rocket propellants. The NACA ceased to exist on October 1, 1958, succeeded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), which was formed largely in response to Soviet space achievements. NACA became the nucleus of the new agency, and all NACA activities and facilities were folded into NASA. Very hard to find and now out-of-print, this new limited edition has been republished by the Rocket Science Institute.