LOXvätgas

LOXvätgas is a term sometimes used to refer to liquid oxygen (LOX) used as an oxidizer in combination with a fuel, typically hydrogen, in rocket propulsion. The "vätgas" part of the term is a direct translation from Swedish for hydrogen. Therefore, LOXvätgas effectively means liquid oxygen and hydrogen. This combination is a highly energetic and efficient propellant.

When liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen are brought together in a rocket engine, they react in a combustion process to produce a large volume of hot gas, primarily water vapor. This rapid expansion of gas creates thrust, propelling the rocket. The high specific impulse achieved with LOX/LH2 propellants makes them a popular choice for upper stages of rockets, where efficiency is paramount to achieving high orbital velocities or interplanetary trajectories.

The use of liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen dates back to early rocketry research. Their cryogenic nature, meaning they must be stored at extremely low temperatures, presents significant engineering challenges in terms of insulation and handling. However, the environmental benefits, producing only water as a byproduct, make them an attractive option for space exploration. Many modern launch vehicles, including those developed by NASA and ESA, utilize LOX/LH2 propellant combinations in their upper stages.