Influence of hydrogen peroxide catalyst grain size on performance and ageing

Two different diameters of Pt/Al₂O₃ spherical catalysts (1 mm and 2 mm) for HTP 98 % decomposition were tested to compare the catalytic activity and catalyst ageing. Comparable decomposition performance efficiencies were obtained during thruster-like tests in a catalytic decomposition setup, even though the 1-mm showed a better reactivity and temperature rising time, including in cold-start operation. However, a rapid physical degradation accompanied by pressure peaks observed throughout testing of the 1-mm catalyst led to damage of the catalyst and apparition of fines, causing partial clogging of the bed.