Evaluation of self-decomposition ability for gaseous nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide is used for a hybrid rocket propulsion system as a useful oxidizer. However, there is the report of the explosive hazards due to nitrous oxide decomposition. The reason for an explosion accident happens are well unknown. Therefore, this study investigated a characteristic of the self-decomposition of nitrous oxide. We performed some decomposition experiment of the nitrous oxide gas. As a result, decomposition of nitrous oxide was observed at approximately 540 degC. Rhodium-alumina particles were used as the catalyst and we observed to the decomposition of nitrous oxide at between 350 and 400 degC. In this paper, the influence of catalyst is discussed and detail is reported about decomposition characteristics of nitrous oxide.