Analisi del Processo di Decomposizione del Perossido di Idrogeno Attraverso un Catalytic Pellet Reactors = Analysis of H2O2 catalytic pellet reactors

Performance modeling and analysis of H2O2 catalytic pellet reactors My master thesis will concern the study of a steady 1D model of the hydrogen peroxide (HP) decomposition flow in a pellet-type catalytic bed and its application to the parametric design of a typical reactor for small rocket propellant thrusters. The aim of my thesis is to describe the catalytic reaction of 𝐻2𝑂2. In order to perform this analysis I will deal with: 1. Homogeneous Two-Phase Flow Model; 2. Reaction Model; 3. Governing equation; Concerning the Homogeneous Two-Phase Flow Model, The two-phase liquid-gas-vapor flow through the bed is treated as an homogeneous, adiabatic, chemically reacting flow, whose properties depend on the local composition. Regarding the Reaction Model fast equilibrium HP adsorption and first-order finite-rate desorption is assumed for the one-step HP decomposition reaction on the catalyst surface. To verify the reliability of my mathematical model, I will compare it with experimental data of HP monopropellant thruster firings in Alta’s Green Propellant Rocket Test Facility. Once the reliability test is performed, I will deal with a sensitivity analysis in order to understand the operational parameters of catalytic pellet beds, and to efficiently guide the reactor sizing and design.