The evolution of fast turbulent deflagrations to detonations

Abstract

We use advanced experimental techniques to explore turbulence-induced deflagration-to-detonation transition (tDDT) in hydrogen–air mixtures. We analyze the full sequence of turbulent flame evolution from fast deflagration-to-detonation using simultaneous direct measurements of pressure, turbulence, and flame, shock, and flow velocities. We show that fast turbulent flames that accelerate and develop shocks are characterized by turbulent flame speeds that exceed the Chapman–Jouguet deflagration speed in agreement with the tDDT theory and direct numerical simulation (DNS) results. Velocity and pressure evolutions are provided to detail the governing mechanisms that drive turbulent flame acceleration. Turbulent flame speeds and fluctuations are examined to reveal flow field characteristics of the tDDT process. This work contributes to the understanding of fundamental mechanisms responsible for spontaneous initiation of detonations by fast turbulent flames.

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Apr 01, 2023
Source ID
10.1063/5.0144663

Entities

People

  • Alexei Poludnenko
  • Hardeo M. Chin
  • Jessica Chambers
  • K Ahmed
  • Rachel Hytovick
  • Vadim N. Gamezo

Organizations

  • Air Force Office of Scientific Research
  • National Science Foundation
  • University of Central Florida
  • University of Connecticut

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Atmospheric Science / Meteorology, specifically Wind Wave Turbulence.
  • Fluid Mechanics and Fluid Dynamics.
  • Rocket Propulsion.