Near-infrared emission signatures of combustion gases in the exhaust plumes of hybrid rocket motors

CHED 194

Brett D. Keller, bkeller@harding.edu, Physical Science, Harding University, HU Box 13543, 900 East Center Street, Searcy, AR 72149-0001
Emission spectra of hybrid rocket exhaust plumes from a mini-scale rocket motor using gaseous oxygen as the oxidant were carried out in the near infrared region of the spectrum using a 0.28 meter SPEX monochromator that has been modified to measure in the 800 nm to 1650 nm region of the spectrum. Spectra were recorded at several distances from the exhaust nozzle and at different times after the beginning of the rocket firing. Signatures for several important molecules found in combustion of CHO fuels were identified.