The roughness of the deposited particle layer on surfaces driven by particle-turbulence interactions
Abstract
The purpose of this action is to provide a FY25 CR2 initial funding increment in the amount of $20K.--Approved for Public Release. This proposal outlines an experimental program to systematically investigate the physics governing particle deposition on surfaces in gas turbine engines. Particulate deposition on turbine blade surfaces reduces aerodynamic efficiency and component life, motivating a fundamental understanding of the deposition process. A key focus is linking the heterogeneous roughness patterns that emerge from deposition to the near-wall turbulence structures and particle dynamics within the turbulent boundary layer. Two complementary experimental facilities are proposed utilizing optical diagnostics to capture the transient deposition process. An ambient temperature vertical channel enables electrostatic charging of seeding particles to explore particle-wall interactions. Preliminary results quantify the increase in deposition velocity and near-wall particle fluctuations with increased particle charge. A high-temperature facility replicates realistic particle sticking behavior up to particle melting point. Proposed measurements aim to characterize deposition nucleation, growth stages, and the evolving coupling between the deposited roughness and near-wall coherent structures. Planned diagnostics include time-resolved particle tracking, surface topology reconstruction using laser grids on deposit structures. The systematic investigation targets fundamental mechanisms to predict heterogeneous deposition patterns and motivate mitigation strategies for particulate fouling in turbomachinery.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 12, 2025
- Source ID
- N000142512194
Entities
People
- Rui Ni
Organizations
- Johns Hopkins University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy