An explanation of the falling hypergolic stages:
China's Space Program Thread II
- Thread starter Blitzo
- Start date
What the hell were they smoking to think not evacuating was a good idea?
It’s prisoning time!
The fact that this sort of thing still happens is indefensible and use of this launch vehicle at this type of inland launch site has continued long past what is reasonable given the number of alternatives.
How long is the hypergolic stuff toxic for? Does it off gas or contaminate the ground?
Nah, It's CZ-3B's para-booster dedicated to solve the debris problem. This very pic simply defends CNSA trying to solve the problem, lol
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Recently they tried a CZ-2C with grid fins. The grid fined inter stage will be installed onto the future 3.35 diameter old rockets. But apperently not this one.
In theory it is fine if the propellant combusts perfectly. In practice the combustion isn't perfect. The combustion produces toxic fumes. And if you land with unburnt propellant you can pretty much bet it will still be corrosive and toxic. Nitrogen Tetroxide evaporates at a lower temperature than Hydrazine. The Nitrogen Tetroxide will likely evaporate. Hydrazine won't evaporate in any useful amount of time.
So even if they evacuated the village, the hydrazine will still be hazardous? Well depending on if it is fuel rich or oxidiser rich there should be a very low amount of hydrazine remaining, as long as you don't touch the tank.