2: Rocket Propellants: Classification and Manufacture

This chapter compares the advantages and disadvantages of solid and liquid propellants for rocket applications and establishes the suitability of solid propellants for tactical battlefield applications. For long duration flights and shorter shelf-life, liquid propellants have the edge and are deployed in space launch vehicles and long-range missiles. Solid propellants are discussed in slightly more detail in this chapter, along with their classifications. This chapter covers a brief introduction to liquid propellants, hybrid propellants and also gelled propellants.