What are the characteristics of a good propellant?

Answer 1

A good propellant :

1.should have high specific impulse that is the propellant should produce greater thrust (downward force or push) per second for 1 kg of the fuel burnt.

2.should produce high temperatures on combustion

3.should produce low molecular weight products during combustion and should not leave any solid residue after ignition.

4.should burn at a slow and steady rate (that is predictable rate of combustion).

5.should possess low ignition delay (that is it should burn as soon as it is lighted up).

6.should possess high density to minimise container space.

7.should be stable at a wide range of temperatures.

8.should be safe for handling and storage.

9.should not be corrosive and hygroscopic(ability to attract and hold water molecules).

10.should not produce toxic gases or corrosive gases during combustion.