Observations on the fluid mechanical phenomena associated with chemical laser nozzles. Technical report, 3 Jun--30 Aug 1974

An existing viscous nozzle program by Lockheed, Huntsville, is analyzed and comparisons of results are made with experimental data. Good agreement is obtained. Suggestions for improvements are made in the area of handling axisymmetric flows, the wall boundary conditions, and the method for estimating and correcting errors in the nozzle longitudinal pressure gradient. A study is also made of molecular weight and specific heat ratio on the nozzle flow characteristics and their effects on chemical laser performance.