What is the most commonly used oxidizer in commercial hybrid rocket motors?

The most commonly used oxidizer in commercial hybrid rocket motors is nitrous oxide (N2O). Nitrous oxide is favored due to its availability, relatively low cost, and ease of handling as a cryogenic liquid. It also operates as a gas at room temperature, making it more user-friendly compared to other oxidizers that may require complex storage and handling protocols.

In hybrid rocket systems, nitrous oxide serves as an efficient oxidizer that can readily combine with a solid fuel, enabling the combustion process to generate thrust. The performance of hybrid rockets can be optimized with nitrous oxide, as it provides a good balance of efficiency and thrust performance. This versatility contributes significantly to its popularity in commercial applications, such as in amateur rocketry and some aerospace missions.

In contrast, while other oxidizers like liquid oxygen, hydrazine, and ammonium perchlorate are important in various types of propulsion systems, they are not typically used in hybrid configurations. Liquid oxygen, for example, is primarily utilized in liquid rocket engines rather than hybrid systems. Hydrazine, commonly associated with monopropellant or bipropellant systems, involves different handling and safety considerations. Similarly, ammonium perchlorate is primarily employed in solid rocket propellant formulations, not in