In this project Orbital Technologies Corporation (ORBITEC) will utilize its unique vortex propulsion technology to develop a high-capacity heating system to heat hydrogen to extremely high temperature levels. The heated hydrogen is to be used for test purposes for nuclear rocket propulsion simulations and total exhaust recovery applications. Our vortex rocket propulsion system is able to reliably and repeatedly operate at very high levels of reliability and operating temperature. This has been demonstrated through a large number of tests conducted over more than a decade using many different propellant combinations and engine sizes. The ORBITEC Vortex is an ideal thermal energy source for the needed hydrogen heating application. In phase 1, two hydrogen heating system concepts (based on the vortex approach) will be analyzed. Basic breadboard systems will be constructed and tested.and evaluated. The feasibility of extended duration hot hydrogen production will be demonstrated. In phase 2/3, a larger operational system will be developed, tested, delivered, and installed at the NASA Stennis Space Center.
