RDX/GAP/BTTN propellant flame studies

The non-intrusive techniques of planar laser-induced fluorescence, ultravio let-visible absorption spectroscopy and spontaneous laser Raman spectroscop y were used to map out species and temperature profiles above the surface o f self-deflagrating RDX/GAP/BTTN model propellant with a pseudo pre-mixed f lame. HCN, CO, and NZ were found to be the major species near the surface, and CO, N-2, and H2O in the burnt gases. A dark zone of about 1200 to 1300 K was observed in which the NO concentration was at its highest. NO, existe d only very close to the surface. No formaldehyde was observed in the gas p hase. Analysis of thermocouple measurements showed a surface temperature of 605 K. Thermal diffusivity and specific heat capacity as a function of tem perature were also measured. (C) 2001 by The Combustion Institute.