Topical: Solid Fuel Combustion in Partial and Micro-Gravity

Abstract

The risk of fire remains an ever-present danger in spaceflight. Most fire safety hazards originate in or eventually involve solid fuels, whether they be cellulosic (e.g., cotton fabric), hydrocarbons (e.g., plastics) or high-energy density electrode materials (e.g., batteries). A key approach to ensuring safety has been to focus on reducing the potential flammability of these materials – achieved by limiting their ignitability, potential for flame spread, and ultimate heat-release potential if ignited [1-3]. This approach has been relatively effective despite several close calls [4]. The limits of our understanding, however, are continually being challenged as future spaceflight missions incorporate partial gravity, enhanced oxygen, new types and classes of materials (e.g., composites), and higher energy-density batteries. This presents both an exciting scientific opportunity to enhance our understanding of solid fuel combustion processes while also posing a dire threat to future long-duration missions to the Moon and Mars.