Cäsar, MarkusMarkusCäsarWeilbach, SimonSimonWeilbachDresel, AlexanderAlexanderDresel2024-07-302024-07-302024-06https://publica.fraunhofer.de/handle/publica/472271Propellant powders are divided into distinct categories based on their chemical composition, including single-base, double-base, and triple-base formulations, among others. Key constituents of these powders include nitrocellulose (NC) and nitrate ester (nitroglycerin or diethylene glycol dinitrate). The specific parameters, such as geometry and base formulation, are tailored according to the intended application. Extrusion represents a widely used method for manufacturing propellant powders. For decades, propellant powders have been mixed in kneaders and produced via extrusion, a well-established and safe process. This approach offers versatility in geometry, enabling precise control over various characteristics. Kneaders use internal components, such as mixing blades, to ensure homogenization. Criteria for evaluating the mixing process include homogenization efficiency, mixing time, energy input, and reproducibility. With the upcoming of novel non-contact mixing technologies as, resonance acoustic mixing systems like the Lab-RAM have gained prominence characterized by time efficiency and non-contact methods. These systems utilize vibration forces near the product resonance frequency to achieve homogenization. The aim of this work was to investigate the influence of different container sizes and geometries on the mixing process, using a Lab-RAM mixer. Through accurate experimentation, the dimensions of the container were systematically varied while other parameters such as mixing time were kept constant. The mixer was operated under controlled conditions to ensure reproducibility. Various methods, such as microscopy (for visual assessment) and viscosity measurement, are employed to compare mixing technologies. This study focuses on comparing these technologies based on viscosity. To explore the impact of solvent content and mixing duration, a capillary extrusion rheometer is utilized. Viscosity is influenced by factors such as temperature, shear rate, and properties of the formulation. The primary objective is to analyze how these factors interact with different mixing technologies.enconference paper