Kernel High Test Peroxide Monopropellant Engine
Faculty Mentor Name
Robert Gerrick
Format Preference
Poster
Abstract
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has not previously designed, developed, or tested a monopropellant rocket engine, particularly one utilizing hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Monopropellant engines offer significant advantages over bi-propellant systems by eliminating the need for complex fuel–oxidizer mixing, dual feed systems, and cryogenic storage infrastructure. The Kernel engine will expand both Embry-Riddle’s and the Rocket Development Lab’s technical expertise in rocket propulsion while enabling new research opportunities in monopropellant systems. Knowledge gained from Kernel will directly inform improvements to both existing and future rocket engines developed by the Rocket Development Lab, including monopropellant handling procedures, feed system design, and small-scale engine development.
Kernel will operate using a 70% H₂O₂ concentration, which is lower than the 80% or higher concentrations commonly used in H₂O₂ monopropellant engines. While lower concentrations are typically avoided due to efficiency losses, this approach prioritizes safety and enables a controlled, incremental testing campaign. Additionally, most existing H₂O₂ monopropellant engines operate at thrust levels below Kernel’s planned 300 N, making this project a valuable contribution to research on higher-thrust H₂O₂ monopropellant systems. Kernel represents the first H₂O₂ monopropellant engine to be designed, developed, and fired at Embry-Riddle and is distinguished by its combination of reduced propellant concentration and above-average thrust, positioning it as a unique and impactful research platform.
Kernel High Test Peroxide Monopropellant Engine
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has not previously designed, developed, or tested a monopropellant rocket engine, particularly one utilizing hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Monopropellant engines offer significant advantages over bi-propellant systems by eliminating the need for complex fuel–oxidizer mixing, dual feed systems, and cryogenic storage infrastructure. The Kernel engine will expand both Embry-Riddle’s and the Rocket Development Lab’s technical expertise in rocket propulsion while enabling new research opportunities in monopropellant systems. Knowledge gained from Kernel will directly inform improvements to both existing and future rocket engines developed by the Rocket Development Lab, including monopropellant handling procedures, feed system design, and small-scale engine development.
Kernel will operate using a 70% H₂O₂ concentration, which is lower than the 80% or higher concentrations commonly used in H₂O₂ monopropellant engines. While lower concentrations are typically avoided due to efficiency losses, this approach prioritizes safety and enables a controlled, incremental testing campaign. Additionally, most existing H₂O₂ monopropellant engines operate at thrust levels below Kernel’s planned 300 N, making this project a valuable contribution to research on higher-thrust H₂O₂ monopropellant systems. Kernel represents the first H₂O₂ monopropellant engine to be designed, developed, and fired at Embry-Riddle and is distinguished by its combination of reduced propellant concentration and above-average thrust, positioning it as a unique and impactful research platform.