Britannica AI Icon

hydrazine thrustor

rocket engine

Quick Summary

A hydrazine thruster is a type of rocket engine that uses hydrazine as a propellant. Hydrazine (N₂H₄) is a colorless, fuming, corrosive liquid with a strong reducing capability. It is often used in simpler rocket systems for attitude control on spacecraft and conventional vehicles.12

In these systems, hydrazine is typically stored in a valved pressure vessel. When released, it flows through a catalyst bed, which causes it to decompose exothermically, producing hot gas. This gas is then expelled through a nozzle to generate thrust. Hydrazine and its organic derivatives are also used as fuels in more complex rocket and jet propulsion systems.23

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.