IMPROVING RATE-CONTROLLING PROCESSES IN MULTIPHASE DETONATION SYSTEMS
Abstract
In this proposal we aim to study, model, and improve rate-controlling combustion mechanisms in multiphase fuels for sustaining detonation waves. In these systems, shock waves promote droplet-particle breakup and initiate combustion kinetics. Simultaneously, the energy released from the combustion of heterogeneous fuels contribute to shock wave propagation. The close coupling between these two effects supports sustained detonation waves. Compared to singlephase fuels, heterogeneous fuels have several benefits. Liquids and solids can be stored at higher densities, premixing components can be simplified, and elements with high potential energies, such as aluminum, can be utilized. Despite the benefits of heterogeneous fuels, several mechanisms currently limit detonation speeds, prevent stable detonations, reduce energy output. In order to better understand and overcome these limitations, we propose to study the key ratelimiting mechanisms of droplet-particle breakup, droplet-particle temperature, and surface chemical reactions at micrometer length scales and nanosecond time scales. In order to study these systems in detail, new diagnostics for distortion-free holographic imaging, surface temperature quantification, and surface chemistry estimation will be developed. Parametric studies will be used to generate regime maps and provide a clearer understanding of the contributions from each mechanism. Next, additives and coatings will be tested to independently alter the key rate-limiting mechanism and to help accelerate reaction rates, promote stable detonation waves, and replace slower diffusion-limited mechanisms with faster kinetics-limited mechanisms. Finally, techniques for assimilating experimental data into numerical models will be investigated in order to estimate difficult-to-measure parameters. The complex coupling of these fundamental combustion mechanisms are important to several Air Force relevant areas, including detonation engines, ramjets-scramjets, explosives, and rocket propulsion. By improving rate-limiting combustion processes in multiphase fuels, new game-changing next-generation propulsion concepts can be formulated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 2023
- Source ID
- FA95502210266
Entities
People
- Yi Mazumdar
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Georgia Tech Research Corporation
- United States Air Force