6: The Essence of Solid Rocket Propulsion

This chapter discusses all the aspects of interior ballistic calculations for solid propellant-based rockets. The thermo-chemical calculations for a theoretical assessment of propellant energetics have been elaborated. The mathematical formulations for characteristic velocity and specific impulse, and their physical significance with respect to rocket motors, have been enumerated. An example is given at the end of the chapter to understand the utility of various concepts for rocket propulsion and appreciate the design of rocket propellants for mission requirements.