HELIUM (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)
Context: Two NASA astronauts aboard Boeing’s Starliner will stay on the International Space Station for months because of a faulty propulsion system whose problems included helium leaks.
Helium
- About: It is the second most abundant element in the universe after hydrogen.
- Property: It is a colorless and odorless inert gas that has unique properties.
- Origin: Helium is a non-renewable natural resource that is most commonly recovered from natural gas deposits.
- Reason to Choose Helium:
oInert Nature: Helium is chemically non-reactive and does not combust, making it ideal for use in rocket systems.
oLightweight: As the second lightest element, helium helps reduce rocket weight, enhancing efficiency in achieving orbital speeds.
oLow Boiling Point: Helium remains a gas even in extremely cold environments, matching the storage needs of rocket fuels.
- Mechanism to Use:
oPressurization: Helium pressurizes fuel tanks, ensuring smooth fuel flow to engines.
oSafe Mixing: Its non-reactive nature allows helium to safely interact with residual tank contents.
Reason of Leaks
- Small Size, Easy Escape: Helium atoms can leak through small gaps due to their small size and low molecular weight.
- Leak Detection: Its rarity in Earth's atmosphere makes helium leaks easy to detect, aiding in spotting potential fuel system issues.
- Alternatives: Argon and nitrogen have been tested as alternatives, but helium remains more common in the industry.
- Innovative Pressurization: Systems like Ariane 6's use of liquid oxygen and hydrogen failed during a test, showing the challenges of replacing helium.
