Metal-Catalyzed Combustion Chemistry Studied with Cluster-Ion Spectroscopy
Abstract
One of the key priorities for Air Force technology is the development of hypersonic jets that fly at Mach 5 or greater. However, this technology has been limited so far because the jet fuels employed are inadequate to generate the required propulsion, and both the rapid fuel burning and atmospheric friction cause engines to overheat. One strategy to overcome these problems is to enhance and control the combustion process with metal-containing zeolite catalysts. Such catalysts, when designed properly, could cause fuels to burn more efficiently while controlling the heat generation in the system. However, the specific catalyst design, including what metals are employed, are as yet undetermined and are subjects of ongoing research. This research program produces model catalysts containing metal centers and fuel molecules and evaluates their activity using diagnostic tools such as mass spectrometry and laser spectroscopy, complemented by computational modeling. The fundamental insights gained from such model studies should enable improved designs of hypersonic jet engine systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2021
- Source ID
- FA95502010327
Entities
People
- Michael A Duncan
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- The University of Georgia
- United States Air Force