Products > Engines & Solid Motors > Green Monopropellant Thruster

Green Monopropellant Thruster

PSI is developing a novel electrolytic ignition system for ASCENT

Capability Description: ASCENT shows promise as a ‘green’ hydrazine replacement with high performance and reduced health hazard. However, reliable ignition is challenging in green monopropellant propulsion systems. PSI is developing a novel electrolytic ignition system for ASCENT that serves as a system-level solution to replace catalyst beds as the propellant ignition source. This ignition system is being demonstrated with a dedicated 5 lbf monopropellant thruster.

Benefit to Warfighter/Customer:

ASCENT is seen as the next generation replacement of hydrazine monopropellants in many spacecraft. Not only does it reduce the handling toxicity compared to the extremely hazardous hydrazine but it provides a boost to density specific impulse by 50%.

Hot-fire test of the monopropellant test engine

OUR PRODUCTS

Prototype And Emerging Technology

Rotating Detonation Engines

PSI is developing novel modifications to conventional RDRE designs that enhance thrust performance

2x4 Solid Rocket Motor

PSI’s existing 2x4 motor hardware supports hot-fire testing up to 5000 psi

5” - 8” Solid Rocket Motor Test Cell

Designed for motors generating up to 3000 lbf of thrust

Propulsion and Power Systems

PSI develops systems for mobile power generation

Aluminum Hydride (Alane)

PSI developed a coating to prevent Alane from losing hydrogen content during storage.

ASCENT Monopropellant

PSI is developing and scaling a micro-reactor process to make ASCENT components and intermediates.

Combustible Cartridge Cases

PSI created a 5.56mm, high performance, insensitive munition compliant, structural combustible cartridge case.

Insensitive Munition Compliant Composite Case

Mitigates threats for solid rocket motor (SRM) systems

Fine Ammonium Perchlorate

PSI incorporates Fine and Ultrafine AP in energetics to produce material with unique properties and burn rates.