Zero - D ModelPDE vs. Conventional Rocket

• Vacuum Back Pressure

  • Rocket and PDE Nearly Identical
  • Chamber Pressure Does not Affect Isp

• Finite Back Pressure

  • Relative Performance Depends on Pressure
  • Equal Initial Pressures--PDE Is Best
  • Equal Peak Pressures--Rocket Is Best
  • PDE Much Better at High Back Pressures
    • PDE Produces Thrust when Initial Pressure Equal to Ambient Pressure

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