Building a Solid Rocket Motor with Alternative Binders and Curing Agents

Your name]In summary, JB and his friend are building a solid rocket motor using a manual from CP Technologies. They are having trouble finding the necessary binder and curing agent in Ottawa, Canada. JB is seeking suggestions for alternatives to the R45M binder and Mondur MR curing agent. Possible alternatives include polyvinyl acetate or polyvinyl alcohol for the binder and isocyanate-based curing agents such as Desmodur N-75 or Desmodur N-3390. The exact amount of curing agent needed may vary and should be determined through research and possibly consulting with a rocketry expert.
  • #1
Quantum_Prodegy
Hey everyone,

My friend and I are building a solid rocket motor using the manual "Building Amateur Rockets" from CP Technologies (by John Wickman). I designed the motor (propellant composition below) but am having trouble finding binder and curing agent in Ottawa Canada. The binder is called R45M and curing agent is Mondur MR. If anybody knows of something we can use in place of these that is more common, it would be greatly appreciated. If not then I guess I'll have to order it from the US.

Propellant Composition:
68% Ammonium Nitrate
18% Magnesium Powder
14% R45M Binder (or alternative)
The curing agent is not included in the percent composition, rather the amount is determined on top of the propellant composition above.

Thanks!
-JB
 
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  • #2


Dear JB,

Thank you for sharing your project with us. It's great to see that you and your friend are taking on the challenge of building a solid rocket motor. I can offer some suggestions for alternatives to the R45M binder and Mondur MR curing agent that you are having trouble finding in Ottawa, Canada.

For the binder, you can try using polyvinyl acetate (PVA) or polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). These are commonly used as binders in solid rocket propellants and should be easier to find in Canada. They are also relatively easy to work with and have good bonding properties.

As for the curing agent, you can try using isocyanate-based curing agents such as Desmodur N-75 or Desmodur N-3390. These are commonly used in solid rocket propellants and should be available in Canada. However, please be cautious when handling these chemicals as they can be hazardous if not handled properly.

It's important to note that the exact amount of curing agent needed may vary depending on the specific propellant composition and desired burn rate. I would recommend doing some research and possibly consulting with a rocketry expert to determine the appropriate amount for your specific project.

I hope this helps and wish you and your friend all the best with your rocket motor project!
 
  • #3


Hi JB,

Building a solid rocket motor with alternative binders and curing agents can be a challenging task, but with the right resources and determination, it is definitely achievable. It's great to see your interest and dedication towards this project.

I understand that you are having trouble finding the specific binder and curing agent mentioned in the manual. One alternative option you could consider for the binder is a polyurethane binder, which is commonly used in solid rocket propellants. As for the curing agent, you could try using a polymeric isocyanate, which is similar to Mondur MR. These alternatives may not be exactly the same, but they can still provide similar results.

Another option would be to reach out to local rocketry clubs or hobby stores in your area. They may have experience and knowledge in building solid rocket motors and could possibly provide you with the necessary materials or suggest alternatives.

If all else fails, ordering from the US may be your best option. However, before doing so, make sure to check if there are any restrictions or regulations for importing these materials into Canada.

Overall, I wish you the best of luck with your project and hope that you are able to find the necessary materials to build a successful solid rocket motor. Keep us updated on your progress!

 

1. What are alternative binders and curing agents used in solid rocket motors?

Alternative binders and curing agents refer to non-traditional materials that are used in place of the traditional binder and curing agents used in solid rocket motors. These alternative materials can include polymers, resins, and other chemical compounds that offer advantages such as improved performance, lower cost, or reduced environmental impact.

2. How do alternative binders and curing agents affect the performance of a solid rocket motor?

The performance of a solid rocket motor can be significantly impacted by the use of alternative binders and curing agents. These materials can alter the burn rate, thrust, and specific impulse of the motor, ultimately affecting its overall performance. It is important to carefully select and test alternative binders and curing agents to ensure they meet the desired performance goals.

3. What are the main challenges in building a solid rocket motor with alternative binders and curing agents?

One of the main challenges in building a solid rocket motor with alternative binders and curing agents is finding materials that can withstand the high temperatures and pressures generated during combustion. Additionally, these materials must also be cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and compatible with other components of the rocket motor.

4. How are alternative binders and curing agents tested for use in solid rocket motors?

Alternative binders and curing agents are typically tested in small-scale experiments, such as strand burn tests, to evaluate their performance and compatibility with other components. They are also tested in larger-scale motor tests to assess how they perform under real-world conditions. These tests help determine the optimal combination of materials for a specific rocket motor design.

5. What are the benefits of using alternative binders and curing agents in solid rocket motors?

There are several potential benefits to using alternative binders and curing agents in solid rocket motors. These materials can offer improved performance, increased safety, lower cost, and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional materials. They can also provide more flexibility in rocket motor design and development, allowing for customized solutions for specific mission requirements.

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