Transient Plasma-enhanced Rocket Propulsion- From Solid Fuels to Ionic Liquids
Abstract
In this seed funding effort, we will perform several demonstrative experiments to assess the feasibility of a plasma-based approach to enhance the combustion of rocket propellants. A key differentiator of this approach versus other plasma-assisted combustion mechanisms is the use of pulsed nanosecond plasmas to perform very high power non-thermal energy deposition into the working fluid. It is expected that this approach (which leverages disruptive innovation in solid state electronics) will fundamentally alter or circumvent chemical reaction pathways, unlocking new and energy efficient ways to manipulate the combustion process. A major component of this work is the use of spectroscopy-based diagnostic tools for understanding the plasma-enhanced combustion pathways and intermediates. The primary goal of this effort is to rapidly explore the engineering-design space then distill any fundamental science challenges which would be candidates for more focused study.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 05, 2025
- Source ID
- FA95502410050
Entities
People
- Stephen B Cronin
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Southern California