Thermal degradation of the binder in GAP-based propellants

The long-term stability of the binder in GAP-based propellants is investigated in this study. Thermal degradation of the polymer network, being related to the extractable proportion of GAP, is quantified by means of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy while the degradation products are analysed by size exclusion chromatography (SEC). Our results concerning the aging of four different formulations at 80 degreesC demonstrate the necessity to add a stabilizer like diphenylamine (DPA) to the propellants. Other additives like MgO and TEPANOL are also shown to have a significative stabilizing effect.