Processes during the Hypergolic Ignition between Monomethylhydrazine (MMH) and Dinitrogen Tetroxide (N₂O₄) in Rocket Engines

Abstract

Two potential sources for engine complications with methylhydrazine/nitrogen tetroxide rocket engines were examined. The products formed during a cold pre-reaction before the actual ignition of the rocket engine and their later behavior were investigated with Car-Parrinello molecular dynamics simulations. It was found that methyldiazene is the main product of the cold pre-reaction. As a side product, especially in the presence of an excess of methylhydrazine, dimethyltetrazanes are formed. These may be responsible for violent side reactions.