A study of the combustion problems of solid materials at conditions existing in space stations

Abstract

Combustión of a solid at microgravity conditions at zero or at very small forced flow velocities is in the first place discussed, pointing out that this is the basic process of a fire in a manned spacecraft, in which might exist small air currents originated by the air conditioning equipment or by the motion of the people. Results of an experimental programme carried out in the 23rd ESA Flight campaign 96/12 and utilising a NASA aircraft laboratory, are shown and discussed. Six combustión chambers were utilised provided with video and infrared cameras. Non visible flames in the visual range were originated at two oxygen concentrations, and photographs were taken by means of an infrared camera. Several ignition tests at different oxygen concentrations were performed and flammability limits were obtained. Fíame spread velocities were measured and compared at three different gravity levéis (1 g, ~10"2 g and 10"4 g). A combustión research programme to be carried out in a Texus rocket, already in progress is briefly discussed. Finally, the scope of a complete research programme, which is in the process of being carried out in the NASA combustión module of the International Space Station is briefly resumed.