Environmental compatibility now also plays a decisive role in space flight. To date, satellites have been powered by hydrazine. This fuel can be stored for a long time and also works reliably under space conditions. The disadvantage is that it is harmful to health. DLR in Lampoldshausen has therefore built up expertise in the replacement of storable propellants. DLR researchers develop, analyze, evaluate and test advanced "green" propellants. The test benches and research setups contribute significantly to the development of space propulsion systems with advanced propellants.
The physical-chemical laboratory of the Chemical Propellant Technology department is involved in the application-oriented development, characterization and testing of advanced propellants, propellant components, novel functional materials and propellant concepts for aerospace propulsion systems. Due to its diverse interface function at the site, the facility is of central importance with regard to the provision of laboratory-specific services and in its function as a research facility for the development and pre-qualification of new advanced propellants.
Modern analytical methods are used
Modern, non-decomposing analytical methods are used to characterize chemical compounds, propellants and materials, such as UV-VIS, Raman and FTIR spectroscopy.
The laboratory complex consists of four laboratories and, together with the production facility at G49, forms the central body of expertise in the field of chemistry and analytics at the DLR Institute of Space Propulsion. In addition to state-of-the-art instrumental analysis and a wide range of expertise in handling energetic materials, the existing infrastructure and numerous safety facilities at G49 allow the handling of explosive substances.
