Solidifying liquid propellant has been considered for space exploration
the verdict
SUPPORTED
the evidence backs this
confidence 89/100
Solidifying or gelling liquid propellants (often termed gel or metallized propellants) has been widely researched and considered for space exploration and launch vehicles to enhance performance and safety.
Evidence for · 6
In-orbit demonstration of an iodine electric propulsion system
2021 · cited by 175
Iodine electric propulsion systems use diatomic iodine stored as a solid and sublimated at low temperatures for space missions.
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More for · 5
Launch vehicle performance using metallized propellants
1994 · cited by 36
Metallized and gelled propellants are considered as replacements for traditional liquid and solid propellants in launch vehicles to improve performance.
Rheological Matching of Gel Propellants
2010 · cited by 35
Gel propellants, which solidify or thicken liquid propellants, are noted as attractive for future space applications.