Propellant Chemistry

Propellant chemistry involves the study of substances that generate thrust by rapidly releasing gases, typically through combustion or decomposition. These substances, called propellants, can be solid, liquid, or gaseous and are designed to produce a controlled, high-speed expulsion of gases to propel rockets or missiles. Key factors include chemical composition, energy release, and stability. In solids, the propellant is a mixture that burns uniformly; in liquids, it flows and burns smoothly; gases are often stored under pressure. Understanding these chemical reactions helps optimize performance, safety, and efficiency of propulsion systems used in aerospace and defense.