Towards finding lead-free ballistic modifiers in double-base propellants using computational modelling

Abstract. Lead-based ballistic modifiers have been the industry standard for double-base propellants (DBPs) since the 1960s. They are known to modify the burn-rate in three distinct ways (super, plateau and mesa-rate burning), which together offers greater control of ballistic performance. However, the continued reliance on lead-based ballistic modifiers is problematic due to the inherent high toxicity of lead, and incoming REACH and UK REACH legislation will restrict their use. In efforts to find suitable alternatives, a computational model has been developed which accounts for the success of lead oxide as a ballistic modifier and allows for other metal oxides to be tested. It models the ballistic modifier in the presence of carbon and small molecules produced at the burning surface of the DBP during combustion. Following a study of selected metal oxides, this work looks at streamlining the computational method and further investigating additional metal oxides with the aim of understanding how they might impact the burn rate of DBPs.