Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) has actually been used as a propellant in rockets and other propulsion systems in the past. It has been employed as a monopropellant, meaning it can decompose and release energy without the need for an additional fuel. However, its use has been limited in modern rocketry for a few reasons:
Performance: Hydrogen peroxide has a relatively low specific impulse compared to other propellants commonly used in rockets, such as liquid hydrogen or kerosene. Specific impulse measures the efficiency of a propellant in producing thrust, and higher values indicate better performance.
Stability: Pure hydrogen peroxide is highly reactive and can decompose spontaneously, especially at higher concentrations or elevated temperatures. This can lead to safety concerns and challenges in storage and handling. Stabilizers are typically added to hydrogen peroxide to increase its shelf life, but even stabilized forms have limited stability.
Toxicity: Concentrated hydrogen peroxide is corrosive and can cause severe burns upon contact with the skin. It can also release oxygen gas, which can increase the flammability of combustible materials. These safety hazards require careful handling and containment procedures.
Availability and cost: Hydrogen peroxide can be produced, but it is generally more expensive compared to other propellants readily available in larger quantities.
Due to these factors, other propellants like liquid hydrogen, kerosene, and solid rocket fuels are typically preferred for modern rocketry. These propellants offer better performance, stability, and safety profiles for space exploration and satellite launches.