A UK startup called Pulsar Fusion test-fired a hybrid rocket engine last week that was partially powered by waste plastic.
The “green” rocket uses a hybrid fuel made with high density polyethylene (HDPE) and nitrous oxide oxidizer, according to New Atlas. HDPE is used in a wide variety of plastic products including detergent and beverage bottles — making it an intriguing way to power energy-intensive rockets.
“We are delighted with the UK test firings,” said Pulsar CEO Richard Dinan, according to New Atlas. “To have a British rocket test on UK soil is novel. Pulsar is among a very few companies around the world to have built and tested these technologies. We have a team of fantastic scientists with a wealth of experience to thank for these milestones.”
Pulsar pulled off its first static fire of the hybrid engine at the UK’s Ministry of Defence military base in Salisbury last week, and according to The Independent, held an international demonstration for space industry…
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