Solid Energetic Materials-Based Microthrusters for Space Applications

In this global scenario, the current state-of-the-art technologies in energy policy and management systems involve the integration of solid propellants/energetic materials into microelectromechanical system (MEMS) to exploit the onboard thermal, mechanical, and chemical energy for civilian and defense needs. The solid propellants are recognized as attractive onboard energy sources owing to contain high energy density and rapid energy release and high actuation pressure as demanded in micro-propulsion. Microthrusters are used to propel and guide the missiles, shells, and also to orient and propel the satellites and to launch the rockets. This chapter details the technological developments and advancements made in the design, fabrication, and modeling of solid energetic materials (propellants and nano-thermites)-based microthrusters and their characterization in terms of propulsion performance as applied for space applications.