O-074 Solid Rocket Propellants for mmproved IM Response- Recent Activities In The Nimic Nations

As part of a systems approach to meeting Insensitive Munitions requirements, the NIMIC member nations have expended a great deal of effort on the development and qualification of less sensitive rocket propellants. The desired characteristics of such "IM propellants" are discussed, in terms of general methods of tailoring the propellants to counter thermal and mechanical (shock/impact) threats. Examples that illustrate the application of these methods in real, useful propellants are presented, along with the corresponding results of component and/or full-scale IM tests, where possible. Tradeoffs between reduced vulnerability and other propulsion system design drivers (e.g., performance, cost, signature, environmental concerns) are also discussed.

New energetic materials and propellant ingredients that show promising IM characteristics are presented, along with a look at future research and development efforts and technology trends in this area. The conclusion is that energetic materials and propellant formulations are available that can provide the rocket motor designer with the required performance while also reducing sensitivity.