Rocket propellant is composed of fuel and oxidants to maintain its combustion in space. NOF develops and produces various types of solid propellant, while Nichiyu Giken Kogyo develops and makes pyrotechnic components used for ignition and stage separation. Nichiyu Giken Kogyo Co., Ltd.

H-IIA rocket launch (Photo courtesy of JAXA) NOF supplies large-size high-performant solid propellant for H-IIA rocket boosters

NOF has provided solid propellant for all Japanese rockets, stretching back to 1955 when “pencil rocket” was developed. As rockets grew in size, they required propellant giving higher performance. In response, NOF has carried out research and development of new type of propellants and introduced new and improved manufacturing technologies, production facilities and equipment to ensure the reliability of its products. Currently, NOF has two locations associated with rocket production: Taketoyo Plant in Aichi Prefecture, which manufactures propellant for M-V rocket, used to launch scientific satellites, and S-310 rocket, used for weather observation; and Tanegashima Works in Kagoshima Prefecture, which produces propellant for SRB-A solid rocket boosters used on H-IIA rocket. Boasting the world’s largest solid propellant mixer, Tanegashima Works can efficiently manufacture large-scale solid rocket boosters.

<NOF Rocket Products>
Solid propellant:
For M-V rocket (used in motors for all stages), S-310 rocket and
SRB-A used on the H-IIA rocket
Igniters:
For all types of rockets