Technology issues associated with using densified hydrogen for space vehiclesSlush hydrogen and triple-point hydrogen offer the potential for reducing the size and weight of future space vehicles because these fluids have greater densities than normal-boiling-point liquid hydrogen. In addition, these fluids have greater heat capacities, which make them attractive fuels for such applications as the National Aerospace Plane and cryogenic depots. Some of the benefits of using slush hydrogen and triple-point hydrogen for space missions are quantified. Some of the major issues associated with using these densified cryogenic fuels for space applications are examined, and the technology efforts that have been made to address many of these issues are summarized.
Document ID
19920066103
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Hardy, Terry L. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Whalen, Margaret V. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)