Propulsion
Abstract
Propulsion basic research expounds fundamental knowledge to enable and enhance efficient utilization of energy in airbreathing engines, chemical and non-chemical rockets, and combined cycle propulsion systems for future rapid global reach and on-demand space access. Basic research thrusts include airbreathing propulsion, space power and propulsion, high altitude signature characterization and contamination, propulsion diagnostics, thermal management of space-based power and propulsion, and the synthesis of new chemical propellants. These thrusts can be grouped into reacting flows and non-chemical energetics. Study of reacting flows involves the complex coupling between energy release through chemical reaction and the flow processes that transport chemical reactants, products, and energy. Non-chemical energetics research includes both plasma and beamed-energy propulsion for orbit-raising space missions and ultra-high energy techniques for space-based energy utilization. Primary areas of research investigated by this Project are space power, propulsion, combustion, and diagnostics. As a newly emerging research direction within this Project, bioenergy and catalysis will investigate the economical production of renewable biofuels for airbreathing engines and will explore biocatalysis for compact power applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2012
- Source ID
- 612308_0601102F_1_3600_PB_2012
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