Innovative Rocket Propellants: 3D Printing with Photocurable Materials

What is it about?

Traditional solid rocket fuel production methods are risky and use toxic chemicals. Researchers from Politecnico di Torino and Politecnico di Milano have developed a safer method using 3D printing and photocurable materials. This new approach eliminates the need for a risky tool and uses less toxic materials. Their work has shown promising results, making solid rocket propellant production safer and more versatile. This breakthrough could revolutionize the future of solid propulsion.

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Photo by Opt Lasers on Unsplash

Photo by Opt Lasers on Unsplash

Why is it important?

In our research, we introduce an innovative method for creating rocket fuel using 3D printing and photocurable materials. This approach is groundbreaking for several key reasons: enhanced safety, design innovation, and increased efficiency. Firstly, safety is improved by removing toxic compounds from the process. Secondly, eliminating the need for a mandrel enables more flexible and creative grain geometries, which directly affect thrust performance. Lastly, our photocurable propellant cures quickly under UV light, speeding up the production process and boosting overall efficiency.