Enhanced-Optical-Access Test-Section for Laminar Flame Studies in Shock Tubes
Abstract
The Hanson Research Group at Stanford University proposes to assemble a highly optically accessible shock-tube test section to enable transformative studies of high-temperature flame dynamics at engine-relevant conditions. The proposed, improved test section will have an immediate impact on the pace and quality of combustion research by enabling novel applications of advanced imaging-based diagnostics, including planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) and multi-axis imaging, in the shock-tube environment used to generate high-temperature, laminar flames. The shock-tube flame speed method is capable of performing the highest-temperature studies of laminar flames ever demonstrated in the literature, covering the entire engine-relevant regime of temperatures. Preliminary studies performed by the Hanson Research Group have provided a demonstration of the proposed methods and evidence of flame structures not previously observed experimentally. The experimental investigations facilitated by the proposed investment of Army resources promises to deliver valuable new insights into the structure of flames at temperatures conditions of immediate relevance to current and future combustion applications utilized by the Army. The experimental capabilities provided by the equipment proposed here will also serve to maintain StanfordÕs and the United StatesÕ leadership position in developing and deploying advanced experimental methods to study the combustion phenomena of greatest importance to practical applications. The availability of detailed measurements of high-temperature flame structures with the aim of understanding dominant physical processes will permit DoD scientists and engineers to better understand complex combustion phenomena and apply this knowledge to the improved design and operation of next-generation energy and propulsion systems. Moreover, the proliferation of the novel experimental methods to other world-class laboratories, as demonstrated through the adoption of numerous previous Hanson Research Group innovations, will deliver a high return on investment in line with the ArmyÕs stated goal of achieving reduced logistics burdens through improved efficiency and enhanced insensitivity to inadvertent ignition in next-generation propulsion systems. [Approved for public release]
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 09, 2020
- Source ID
- W911NF2010236
Entities
People
- Ronald Kent Hanson
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Stanford University
- United States Army