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[–] 4 points 2 months ago (5 children)

There was some discussion around using ClF3 as an oxidizer, which would work but there were problems around containment/storage of a material that is hypergolic with sand and most metals.

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  • [–] 3 points 2 months ago (2 children)

    It's super oxidative, AND corrosive. When you pour a normal oxidizer on metal, you get a thin layer of oxidized metal, and the reaction stops.

    But CIF3 will dissolve that oxide, and keep going. And keep going fast enough that stuff catches on fire.

    It's a chemical used to clean vapor deposition chambers, in tiny little ampules. The idea of using it rocket-sized volumes should make every sane person run for the hills.

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