Validation and implementation of optical diagnostics for particle sizing in rocket motors
By:  Paul V. Gomes
Publisher: Naval Postgraduate School; Available from National Technical Information Service
Published: 1993
Place of publication: Monterey, Calif; Springfield, Va
Language: eng
Number of pages: 39
Description: Aluminum oxide(Al2O3) particles of known size distribution were cast into a solid propellant which burned at temperatures less than the melting point of Al2O3. Thus, particles of known size distribution existed at the nozzle inlet and in the plume. Malvern particle sizing instruments were used to make measurements at these two location using a windowed subscale motor and the results were compared to the known distribution. In the motor, measurements were limited due to disruptive flow from the window purge gas. However, the unaffected larger modes were properly measured. In the plume, the measurements of the modes were quite accurate, but low signal strength resulted in some inaccuracies for the mass contained in each mode. A phase Doppler particle analyzer was adapted to an existing plume probe. Initial measurements at two radial locations were in good agreement with the expected size distribution.
Notes: Thesis advisor(s): David W. Netzer.

"December 1993."

Thesis (M.S. in Aeronautical Engineering) Naval Postgraduate School, December 1993.

Includes bibliographical references.

Approved for public release; distribution unlimited.

Also available online.

Mode of access: World Wide Web.

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US Navy (USN) author.