Thermal Decomposition Kinetics of Kerosene-Based Rocket Propellants. 2. RP-2 with Three Additives

The thermal decomposition of RP-2 with three potential stabilizing additives was investigated. The additives were 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline (THQ), 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene (tetralin), and the additive package that isused to make JP-8+ 100(herein referred to as the +100 additive). For mixtures of RP-2 with THQ and tetralin, the concentration of additive was 5% by mass. The mixture of RP-2 with the +100 additive contained only 256 mg/L of the additive (the same concentration used to make JP-8+100). Decomposition reactions were performed at 375, 400, 425, and 450 degrees C in stainless steel reactors. At each temperature, the extent of decomposition as a function of time was determined by analyzing the thermally stressed liquid phase by gas chromatography. The results with each additive were compared to the decomposition of neat RP-2 under the same conditions. The addition of 5% THQ slowed the rate of decomposition by approximately an order of magnitude. The addition of 5% tetralin slowed the rate of decomposition by approximately 50%. At the low concentration tested, the +100 additive did not significantly change the thermal stability of the RP-2.