Evaluation of an electrothermal-chemical concept where propellant combustion is stimulated by conducting electric current through the flame

An evaluation of an electrothermal-chemical (ETC) concept where propellant combustion is stimulated by conducting electric current through the flame has been performed. For comparison, a brief presentation of the two most commonly used ETC solutions-plasma injection and current injection-is also made. Their basic function is outlined as well as their characteristic properties in various phases of the interior ballistic cycle. The ETC concept examined at FOI is described in a corresponding manner and qualitatively compared with the two previous ones. So far this concept is only experimentally examined in a closed vessel. The experimental results are analyzed with respect to the electric resistance in the combustion chamber and the electrothermal pressure increase. Using the latter, the influence of the added electric energy on the combustion is evaluated.