Simulation of the Multiphase Reaction Zone in a Li-SF 6 Combustion System for Spacecraft Power and Heating

Lithium-sulfur hexafluoride (Li-SF6) stored chemical energy propulsion systems (SCEPS) have been employed as self-contained, high-specific-energy, power systems for undersea vehicles in defense applications. Recent investigations have studied the potential to adapt this technology for spacecraft power and heating. The reaction between lithium and SF6 produces 4049 Wh/kg of heat, which can enable long duration space missions operating in cold, dark, and resource-constrained environments. However, there are knowledge gaps related to the spatial distribution of corrosive intermediate products in such reactors and heat flux distribution on the reactor surface. The present study develops a multiphase reacting flow simulation approach for wick-type SCEPS reactors to predict such factors and guide system engineering for long-duration spacecraft operation. Results from this multiphase simulation are compared with a previously developed ideal gas formulation. Minimal deviations (