Abstract

There is a great deal of interest in obtaining a better understanding of the important chemical mechanisms occuring in solid propellant flames [1]. Some of the best methods of obtaining this chemical information are the recently developed laser-based combustion diagnostics, such as laser-induced fluorescence (LIF)(e.g., [2]). Solid propellant flames are quite complex, so a complete description of the flame down to the level that simple flames have been analyzed is not feasible at present. What is needed is a better understanding of the flame structure and major reaction pathways in solid propellant flames as a function of pressure and propellant composition. The distribution of radicals such as CN, NH, and OH, as seen in laser-induced fluorescence, will be a key part of this improved understanding of solid propellant flame chemistry.

© 1987 Optical Society of America