Expanded in 2023, the Chemical Research Laboratory for space applications enablesa  global-scale investigation of physico-chemical properties and chemical compatibility of propellant materials.

Łukasiewicz – Institute of Aviation is a leading research and development unit in Poland and worldwide in the field of ecological rocket propulsion. Its primary areas of interest and specialization lie in environmentally friendly liquid and hybrid propulsion systems based on over 98% hydrogen peroxide, as well as innovative hypergolic fuels.

The in-house capabilities of production of hydrogen peroxide with concentrations exceeding 98% are based on a patented method, providing independence in preparations for testing engines and other components utilizing HTP.

The chemical laboratory – tasks

• Research on fuels for new liquid, hybrid, and gel propulsion systems.
• Research onfuels hypergolic with hydrogen peroxide (production, long-term storage, passivation, and compatibility studies).
• Research on chemical durability of fuels containing catalytic and/or energetic additives.
• Investigation of physicochemical parameters useful for propulsion applications.
• Development of advanced low-smoke solid rocket propellant materials.
• Research on high-performance environmentally friendly fuels and oxidizers of a new generation.
• Development of catalysts for single-component propellant applications.
• Research on the chemical compatibility of different structural materials with working fluids.
• Development of fuel compositions that spontaneously react with hydrogen peroxide (hypergolic).

The chemical laboratory – equipment

• Nicolet iS50 FT-IR spectrometer with built-in ATR.
• Vhx 7000 digital microscope.
• laboratory muffle furnace type FCF 22 SHM.
• vibratory sieve shaker AS Control.
• planetary ball mill PM 100.
• stand for casting solid rocket propellant materials.

Prototypes of propellant materials obtained through casting process and after thermal conditioning must undergo testing to meet specified parameters, including ballistic, mechanical, thermochemical properties, and safety requirements. Only with a ready and properly characterized propellant material can full thruster tests be conducted, which are  performed on site on vacuum or atmospheric test stands. Consolidating the research facilities in one place enables comprehensive research and development of solid propellant materials while increasing their safety.

Electrochemical testing capabilities

We offer tests in the field of electrochemical processes and corrosion resistance using electrochemical methods according to the following standards
PN – EN, ISO, ASTM or under individually selected conditions for the following sectors

• Aerospace and automotive industry,
• Space industry,
• Medical industry, e.g. bio-implants, surgical instruments, stents etc.
• Coated and uncoated metal structures.

Examples of research possibilities:

• Corrosion resistance testing of uncoated and coated metals by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) according to the standardPN-EN ISO 16773 -2.
• Corrosion resistance testing of stents and surgical instruments according to ISO 10993-15.
• Galvanic corrosion susceptibility testing of implant materials according to ASTM G71- 81. Also, other materials.
• Cathodic disbonding testing of epoxy and polyester coatings according to ASTM G8-96.
• Corrosion testing of metallic grounding components inserted in the moist soil, by means of the polarization resistance method according to ASTM G59 standard.

We also provide technical advice, expertise and bespoke services in this area.