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Prospects for scramjet engines in reusable launch applications: A review.

Authors :
Sam, Lissen
Idithsaj, P.T.
Nair, Prasanth P.
Suryan, Abhilash
Narayanan, Vinod
Source :
International Journal of Hydrogen Energy. Nov2023, Vol. 48 Issue 92, p36094-36111. 18p.
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Partially or completely reusing launch vehicles significantly reduces expenses for manufacturing and testing in space missions. Thus, Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLV) can be a solution to achieving technological and financial goals associated with space programs. Scramjet engines have a higher specific impulse than rocket engines and the capability to operate efficiently at extremely high speeds. This paper reviews the requirements in reusable launch vehicle technologies and how the scramjet engines can be used with their advantages and limitations, and possible solutions to meet future requirements of reusable launch systems. The review covers different aspects of the launch requirements of a reusable launch vehicle, the applicability of scramjet in the RLV, and the key parameters to enhance the performance of the scramjet engine. With the possibility of hydrogen as fuel, it is inferred that the scramjet is a plausible candidate for the successful, sustainable, greener, and cost-effective operation of the RLV. The combination of Scramjet-RLV holds the promise of significantly bringing down the cost of space missions. • Requirements in reusable launch vehicle technologies are reviewed. • Capabilities of scramjets to meet reusable launch system requirements are assessed. • With hydrogen fuel, scramjet can enable sustainable and cost-effective RLV operation. • Scramjet-RLV combine promises significant cost reduction in space missions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
03603199
Volume :
48
Issue :
92
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
173371837
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhydene.2023.05.341