ISRO successfully tests hybrid propulsion system, to aid future technologies

• ISRO recently said that it successfully demonstrated a hybrid propulsion system that used a solid fuel and liquid oxidiser.

Ground based test

• Oxidiser - Flight equivalent 30 kN hybrid motor used HTPB-based (hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene) aluminised solid fuel and liquid oxygen (LOX).
• Performed for 15 seconds on a 300-mm sounding rocket motor.

About the hybrid propulsion system

• More efficient, "greener" and safer to handle.
• Paves way for new propulsion technologies for future missions
• Tested with support from the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).
• While both HTPB and LOX are green, the cryogenic LOX is safer to handle.
• Permits restarting and throttling capabilities on the motor.
• Use of liquids facilitates throttling and control over the flow rate of LOX.

Prelims Takeaway

• Hybrid propulsion system
• ISRO