Abstract

Continuous Flow Biocatalytic Production of Rocket Fuel

Michael Spano, PhD Candidate, LANL

This presentation will address on-demand production of hypergolic fuel via continuous-flow biocatalysis. This approach represents a paradigm shift in high energy chemical manufacturing with major benefits in safety and waste reduction. Immobilization of biocatalysts affords increased enzyme stabilization and improved performance for on-demand synthesis of hypergolic fuels. This technology may find utility in the aerospace industry where on-demand synthesis of propellant may circumvent stockpiling.