Rocket Propellants

Rocket propellants are energy-rich chemicals stored onboard that, when burned (or decomposed), generate hot gases expanded through a nozzle to produce thrust. For India’s launch vehicles, propellants span solid, liquid (storable), and cryogenic systems. India’s PSLV uses alternate solid and liquid stages, while LVM3 uses solid strap-ons, liquid core and cryogenic upper stage, with each propellant type aligned to a specific flight phase and performance requirement.

Key Classes of Propellants Used in India

  • Rocket propellant is a combination of fuel and an oxidizer, unlike air-breathing engines.
    • Solid Propellants (e.g., composite propellants for large boosters).
    • Storable Liquid Propellants (ignite reliably; support control ....
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