Macroporous–mesoporous alumina supported iridium catalyst for hydrazine decomposition

Decomposition of hydrazine allows the attitude and altitude control of satellite. Macroporous–mesoporous alumina supported iridium catalyst (KCMC-7) has been developed using the fast dehydration of aluminium trihydroxide and subsequent multiple impregnations. The result of data analysis suggested that the obtained alumina was ρ-Al2O3 with both macro and mesopores. Significant amount of pentagonal Al sites after rehydration of ρ-Al2O3 was responsible for ultra high dispersion for ultra high loading of metal around 30 wt%. The performance of the KCMC-7 measured using 4.5 N dual thruster module was satisfactory until the end of life, providing enough thrust for the attitude and altitude control of satellite in the pressure range of 50–350 psi.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (199 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Macro–mesopore alumina grains containing Ir nanoparticles. ► Catalyst for hydrazine decomposition for the attitude and altitude control of the satellite. ► Large permeability for superior mass and heat transfer. ► Catalytic processes under the high pressure or temperature and diffusion limited reaction.