Effect of Liquid Rocket Fuels and Oxidizers on Elastomeric O-Ring Seals

O-ring seals of selected elastomeric and compliant materials were evaluated for resistance to liquid rocket fuels and oxidizers in a simulated end-use test. Oxidizers were nitrogen tetroxide, chlorine trifluoride, and 90 per cent hydrogen peroxide; fuels were mixed hydrazines, pentaborane, and Hybaline A-5. Tests were made at 73° F with all fluids; further, the effect of elevated temperature (160° F) on seals was evaluated in nitrogen tetroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and mixed hydrazines. At 73° F only polytetrafluoroethylene was resistant to all of the fluids; however, elastomeric materials were found which were satisfactory for specific fuel or oxidizer systems. Butyl and ethylene propylene rubber appear satisfactory for long term storage in the presence of mixed hydrazines and Hybaline A-5. The fluorocarbons appeared best of the elastomeric materials for use with pentaborane and hydrogen peroxide.