According to foreign media reports, from the rocket launches of the 1970s up until the early 2000s, the most advanced mission, such as the Curiosity Rover, relied on relatively "original" power sources. Plutonium is still used today as a fuel in some rockets, while another chemical substance, hydrazine, has also been widely employed.
Although earthworms can generate a large amount of energy, the substance they produce is highly toxic. It can cause harm when inhaled or when it comes into contact with the skin. It can damage the liver and eyes of humans, and its transportation is also more complex. Currently, nitrogen is mainly used for sealed storage and transport. After years of research by the US Air Force Institute, scientists have discovered a new type of rocket fuel that replaces thorium. This new fuel is not only safer than thorium but also more environmentally friendly, and it releases a significant amount of energy.
In the future, rocket fuel will become more eco-friendly, with higher energy output, making it easier to transport and store.
The new propellant being explored is an ionic liquid. These substances have molecules that carry either a positive or negative charge and exist in a liquid state. The unique properties of ionic liquids make them very safe for handling and storage. However, previous experiments showed that they did not release enough energy when burned, which limited their use in rocket propulsion.
Tom Hawkins, a scientist from the US Air Force Rocket Propulsion Research Group, believes that ionic liquids could be a promising alternative for rocket fuel. One example is AF-M315E, a liquid propellant that, when exposed to low pressure, evaporates slowly. This makes it more stable and less flammable compared to traditional fuels like helium. It is also easier to handle and use. In terms of toxicity, AF-M315E produces only non-toxic gases such as water vapor, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide during combustion.
The main component of AF-M315E is hydroxyl ammonium nitrate, which was also involved in the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995. Scientists managed to lower its melting point by about 100 degrees Celsius by adding hydroxyl molecules. This change is crucial for the material to function as an ionic liquid. Although it might seem counterintuitive that this green propellant is hard to ignite, this characteristic actually makes it safer to use.
When ignited, AF-M315E can release a greater amount of energy. However, the high temperatures produced may damage current NASA spacecraft engines. Scientists are working on developing better materials to withstand these extreme conditions. The first test of a rocket using this green propellant is scheduled for 2015. If successful, it could mark the beginning of a new era in manned space exploration. (Everett/Compilation)
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