↦ Newsroom Advanced boron carbide additive formulation developed providing higher performance than boron hydride. Laboratory testing shows 18-22% specific impulse improvement, achieving 265-280 seconds. Boron carbide particles more stable and less reactive than boron hydride.
An advanced boron carbide additive formulation was developed providing even higher performance than boron hydride. Laboratory testing shows 18-22% specific impulse improvement. Boron carbide particles are more stable and less reactive than boron hydride. While the boron hydride system had been very successful, exploration of other boron compounds was pursued to achieve even better performance. Boron carbide is a ceramic compound with exceptional hardness and high energy density. It is more stable than boron hydride and does not have the same reactivity issues. Combustion of boron carbide produces boron oxide and carbon dioxide, both well-understood combustion products. A boron carbide suspension formulation was developed similar to the boron hydride system, but optimized for boron carbide particles. Boron carbide concentration is about 18% by weight. The surfactant system is optimized for the different particle properties of boron carbide. Laboratory test results are excellent. Boron carbide-enhanced fuel was tested with IWFNA in the test stand. Specific impulse is 18-22% higher than baseline system - achieving 265-280 seconds, which is exceptional. Combustion is clean and efficient. Exhaust contains boron oxide and carbon dioxide, benign products. Thrust is steady and consistent throughout the burn. Long-term stability of the boron carbide suspension was tested. Particles remain suspended without settling. Suspension is stable for extended periods. Handling and safety of boron carbide is better than boron hydride. Boron carbide is less reactive and less hazardous. Procedures for mixing, storing, and handling are simpler and safer. Particle size and distribution of boron carbide was investigated. Particle size was optimized to maximize surface area for combustion while minimizing abrasive effects on engine components. Ground testing with boron carbide-enhanced fuel in the test stand was planned. The goal was to ensure system reliability and safety before further development. Hybrid formulations combining boron hydride and boron carbide were also explored to achieve the best combination of performance and stability. This represents exciting progress. The performance envelope of the propulsion system continues to be expanded. With boron carbide additives, specific impulse values competitive with advanced chemical propulsion systems are being achieved.