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A Review of Hydroxyl Ammonium Nitrate (HAN) as an Alternative to Traditional Satellite Propellants

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Abstract:

The toxicity level and environmental impact of traditional chemical propellants like hydrazine has led to an urgent need for safer alternatives such as Hydroxyl Ammonium Nitrate (HAN) in the global space industry. This study investigates HAN as a promising green propellant for satellite propulsion. It reviews HAN's properties, synthesis, and decomposition mechanisms (thermal, catalytic, electrolytic) while comparing its key HAN-based formulations against hydrazine in terms of performance, eco-friendliness and safety. Despite challenges like catalyst degradation and storage stability, HAN emerges as a viable, potential replacement for hydrazine. Its catalytic innovations, standardization, and production infrastructure should be further researched on for future purpose.

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Periodical:

Key Engineering Materials (Volume 1045)

Pages:

67-77

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4028/p-ZcqrO5

Citation:

Cite this paper

Online since:

March 2026

Authors:

Ikenna G. Iheanacho*, Samuel A. Agada, Emelia A. Theophilus, Usman A. Shuaib, Chinenye B. Ayogu, Godspower O. Uhiene, Joseph B. Adeniyi, Maryjane Obidiagha, Frank Nzekwe

Keywords:

AF-M315E, Catalyst Degradation, Decomposition Mechanisms, Green Propellant, Hydroxylammonium Nitrate (HAN), Satellite Propulsion, SHP163, Space Exploration, Sustainable Propulsion

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© 2026 Trans Tech Publications Ltd. All Rights Reserved

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* - Corresponding Author

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