商业火箭高频发射下的最刚性需求：推进剂与特种气体

Core Insights - The commercial space industry in China is entering a phase of scaled launches, with a clear path to cost reduction through high payload capacity and reusable technology [1][3] - The demand for propellants and specialty gases is closely tied to launch frequency, making it a stable and predictable value segment in the commercial space sector [2][11] Group 1: Launch Frequency and Infrastructure - China's rocket launch frequency is projected to grow rapidly, reaching 92 launches by 2025, with 50 of those being commercial launches, a significant increase from 39 total launches in 2020 [1][3] - The launch infrastructure is being enhanced, with a total of 21 existing launch sites and 5 more under construction or planned, creating a comprehensive system for inland, coastal, and maritime launches [1][3] Group 2: Cost Structure and Reusability - Reusable technology is significantly altering the cost distribution in rocket launches, with the cost of a Falcon 9 launch's propellant and specialty gas demand estimated at approximately $800,000 [1][11] - The cost of the rocket itself has decreased from $50 million to $15 million due to reusability, while the proportion of launch costs attributed to propellant and specialty gases has increased from 1.6% to 5.3% [1][11] Group 3: Propellant and Specialty Gas Demand - The demand for propellants and specialty gases is expected to grow steadily with increased launch frequency, as they are essential consumables with high safety and reliability requirements [11][12] - The market for propellants and specialty gases is characterized by strong customer loyalty and a converging technology path, providing higher long-term visibility and value stability compared to rocket manufacturing [2][11] Group 4: Fuel Technology Comparison - Liquid oxygen-methane is emerging as a preferred fuel in reusable rocket scenarios due to its low carbon residue and stable combustion properties, which enhance engine performance over multiple flights [13][15] - The comparison of fuel types shows that while liquid oxygen-methane offers advantages in maintenance and operational efficiency, liquid oxygen-kerosene remains prevalent due to its established technology and existing infrastructure [13][15]