There is a term, “It’s not a rocket science to understand this problem” when someone tries to describe how easy it is to solve a problem. The phrase clearly emphasises that rocket development science is very complex and requires expertise in various fields.

The Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) IPB University held the 58th IPB Physics Talk Webinar series which presented a rocket technology expert from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) who is also the Chief of the Rocket Technology Center, Dr Heru Supriyatno. The workshop was held online on Thursday, 25/01.

Dr Heru explained the definition of a rocket vehicle as well as the various types of combustion systems and rocket fuel (propellant). “There are three types of rockets based on the type of propellant, namely liquid, solid and hybrid fuelled rockets. There are two methods of propellant production, namely case bonded and free standing,” he said.

He continued, in the case bonded method, the propellant container is coated with a thermal insulator first, but in the free standing method the propellant is printed separately from the rocket motor casing. The difference depends on the type of rocket calibre used. Propellant characteristics such as fuel density, water vapour absorption, burning rate, granular structure of the propellant, and ease of manufacturing also determine the propellant performance of the rocket.

“There are obstacles in rocket research and development in Indonesia such as budget constraints, lack of industrial support, and technology restrictions from developed countries. BRIN has tried to resolve these obstacles by conducting various collaborations and Training of Trainers (ToT) with various countries such as China, Brazil, and others,” said Dr Heru.

Dr Heru said, as long as there is enthusiasm and willingness, these obstacles can be overcome and found a way out. The development of rocket technology itself is not only related to propellant but also related to aspects of instrumentation, control, materials, aerodynamics and others.

Prof Tony Sumaryada, Chairman of the Department of Physics FMIPA IPB University expressed his appreciation to Dr Heru Supriyatno for sharing his knowledge and insights related to propellant research and rocket technology in Indonesia. “It is hoped that a real research collaboration between FMIPA IPB University, especially the Department of Physics and Chemistry with the BRIN Rocket Technology Centre can be immediately realised and developed for the progress of the nation,” he concluded. (Lp) (IAAS/RUM)

Previously published in IPB News : https://www.ipb.ac.id/news/index/2024/02/ipb-university-physics-department-presents-brin-rocket-expert-outlines-challenges-and-opportunities-for-rocket-propellant-research-in-indonesia/