Optimization of network forming agents for different types of composite propellant grain

There has been a constant endeavour to improve the mechanical properties of hydroxyterminated polybutadiene (HTPB)-based, composite solid propellants. In order to have a better understanding of the requirements, a systematic study has been conducted on the effects of varying the network forming agents on the mechanical properties of nitramine based composite propellants. Under this scheme, a series of compositions was formulated using various chain extenders [1,6-hexanediol (HD) and 1,4-butanediol (BD)] and cross linkers [1,2,6-hexanetriol (HT) and trimethylolpropane (TMP)] in different proportions. Propellant formulation experiments were conducted wherein the network forming agent composition was systematically varied to achieve the maximum possible strain capability and moderately high tensile strength, keeping the weight % of the network forming agents and other ingredients constant. The mechanical properties (% elongation, tensile strength and elastic-modulus) of the finished propellant have been plotted vs. formulation number; this can be used to select a suitable network forming agent composition for a specified grain architecture and application. Network forming agents containing 1,2,6-hexanetriol provide a high elastic-modulus (120 kg/cm2) and a high tensile strength (~12 kg/cm2), which can be used in free standing grains. Network forming agents based on 1,6-hexanediol and 1,2,6-hexanetriol (in 1:1 proportion by weight) give high elongation (~50%) and a moderately high tensile strength (~9 kg/cm2), useful for case bonded propellant grains.