Theoretical Performance and Application Cases of Water Electrolysis Propulsion

Abstract

Water Electrolysis Propulsion offers a clean alternative to current toxic and detonable spacecraft propellants. Beyond the potential replacement of hydrazine as propellant, water based propulsion can be highly attractive for future exploration missions, since the availability of water on many potential landing sites offers the opportunity of refueling. The paper discusses components and state of the art of water propulsion and lists possible variants. A performance analysis is made by use of the chemical equilibrium code CEA. Trade-offs and comparisons are performed with conventional chemical and electric propulsion systems.