Ground Test Execution
Comprehensive ground testing of the IWFNA with Iodine Pentoxide (I2O5) corrosion inhibitor and morpholine-TEA propulsion system was successfully conducted at the test facility under controlled conditions with all necessary safety measures in place. The test stand used a single thruster with IWFNA as oxidizer and morpholine-TEA as fuel, designed for approximately 15 seconds burn time.
Performance Results
The thruster performed nominally throughout the test. Thrust was steady and consistent, with specific impulse of 225 seconds—excellent performance. All combustion characteristics were recorded and matched predictions. Post-test inspection showed no damage or degradation; the combustion chamber was clean and the nozzle in good condition.
System Validation
This ground test validates the entire development program. The progression from HTP monopropellant to IWFNA bipropellant with morpholine-TEA fuel proved successful. The corrosion inhibitor system (Iodine Pentoxide added to WFNA, hydrolyzing to Iodic Acid) enabled safe, reliable WFNA use by forming a protective layer on metal containers. The system demonstrates high performance, safety, and reliability.
Program Milestone
This represents a major achievement in the propulsion program—successful demonstration of a safe, reliable, high-performance hypergolic propulsion system. Additional ground testing is planned to explore different operating conditions and thruster configurations.