Electrothermal-chemical (ETC) technology is an attempt to
increase accuracy and muzzle energy of future tank, artillery,
and close-in weapon system guns by
improving the predictability and rate of expansion of propellants inside
the barrel. An electrothermal-chemical gun uses a plasma cartridge to ignite
and control the ammunition's propellant, using electrical energy to trigger the
process. ETC increases the performance of conventional solid propellants,
reduces the effect of temperature on propellant expansion and allows for more
advanced, higher density propellants to be used.
The technology has
been under development since the mid-1980s and at present is actively being
researched in the United States by the Army Research Laboratory, Sandia National Laboratories and
defense industry contractors, including FMC
Corporation, General Dynamics Land Systems, Olin Ordnance,
and Soreq Nuclear Research Center. It is
possible that electrothermal-chemical gun propulsion will be an integral part
of US Army's future combat system and those of other countries such as Germany and
the United Kingdom. ETC
technology offers a medium-risk upgrade and is developed to the point that
further improvements are so minor that it can be considered mature.
Nevertheless, there is substantial existing evidence
that ETC technology is viable and worth the money to continue development.
Furthermore, it can be integrated into current gun systems. ETC increases the
performance of conventional solid propellants, reduces the effect of
temperature on propellant expansion and allows for more advanced, higher
density propellants to be used. It will also reduce pressure placed on the
barrel in comparison to alternative technologies that offer the same muzzle
energy given the fact that it helps spread the propellant's gas much more
smoothly during ignition. Currently, there are two principal methods of plasma
initiation: the flashboard large area emitter (FLARE) and the triple coaxial
plasma igniter (TCPI).
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