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http://dx.doi.org/10.6108/KSPE.2021.25.3.062

A Study on Fuel Selection for Next-Generation Launch Vehicles  

Kim, Cheulwoong (Future Launcher R&D Program Office, Korea Aerospace Research Institute)
Lim, Byoungjik (Future Launcher R&D Program Office, Korea Aerospace Research Institute)
Lee, Keejoo (Future Launcher R&D Program Office, Korea Aerospace Research Institute)
Park, Jaesung (Future Launcher R&D Program Office, Korea Aerospace Research Institute)
Publication Information
Journal of the Korean Society of Propulsion Engineers / v.25, no.3, 2021 , pp. 62-80 More about this Journal
Abstract
The requirements for the next-generation propulsion system and for a good propellant have been summarized. The characteristics and effectiveness of kerosene, hydrogen, and methane, which are the fuels that are mainly attracting attention in Korea and abroad, were compared with each other. As a result of the comparison, methane was evaluated to be more advantageous than other fuels in reliability, cost, reusability, maintenance, eco-friendliness, safety, lifespan, technical difficulties, engine cycle selection, application of common bulkhead, and non-disassembly/reassembly delivery. And in terms of performance, the specific impulse of methane is higher than that of kerosene, so the efficiency of the launch vehicle can be increased. Methane's properties incluidng eco-friendliness, low-temperature combustion, long life, and maintenability make it beneficial for reuse and for the development of multi-purpose engines.
Keywords
Launch Vehicle; Liquid Rocket Engine; Kerosene; Methane; LNG; Hydrogen;
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