Analysis of Environmental Issues in the Disposal of Exhausted Charges from Solid Fuel Engines

Abstract

The most common methods of removing or destroying RDTP charges are burning or detonating the fuel and removing solid rocket fuel (SRF) by hydrodynamic washing, mechanical processing, chemical destruction, and cryogenic destruction. Let's consider the main advantages and disadvantages of these methods.

When burning or detonating defective charges or charges with an extended storage period, there is a high probability of accidents with serious consequences for the environment [1]. Changes in the physical and chemical properties of charges after their long-term storage can lead to the transition of the layered deflagration burning mode of SRF into detonation. The burning method is characterized by significant capital costs associated with the construction of landfills and waste treatment and burial systems. Moreover, the burning process must be carried out with the mandatory cleaning of emissions of toxic combustion products formed in the absence of oxygen, up to environmental safety standards. When detonating SRF due to the occurrence of an unstable detonation regime, there is a possibility of scattering fragments of the charge and the casing over a significant area, creating secondary sources of pollution.