Multi-QCL Laser Absorption Diagnostics for Energetic Materials Performance and Hypersonic Flow Fields Under Extreme environments
Abstract
This work aims to develop and demonstrate robust, non-intrusive optical diagnostic systems with a low packing factor that provides reliable measurements of fundamental thermodynamic variables. The system could then be readily applied to crucial defense problems, including hypersonic and energetic flow environments over harsh conditions. The sensor is based on a monolithic, multiple quantum cascade laser (multi-QCL) system, which produces narrowband, tunable mid-infrared (MIR) output at multiple, independently addressable wavelengths on a single optical path. In the context of this application, this laser source is game-changing as it enables the precise spectroscopic measurement of thermodynamic parameters via narrowband probing of multiple molecules with absorption features separated by hundreds of wavenumbers via a single compact and robust source. Here, we offer a novel diagnostic system based on a multiple distributed feedback quantum cascade laser system on a single chip, enabling probing of points across the MIR absorption spectrum of CO, NO, H2O, CO2, etc., across the entire 300 Ð 10000 K range with MHz time resolution. A multi-disciplinary team from UCF, with expertise in QCL lasers, hardening sensors for harsh environments, and combustion and detonation diagnostics, is assembled for this project. The proposed sensors will use absorption spectroscopy to measure temperature and species concentrations in multiple flow environments. UCFÕs shock tube, blast chamber, and detonation tube platforms will be used as available facilities to characterize and test conduct such sensors. The measurements provided by the system will enable correlated measurements of different species in the flow, providing a complete characterization at a single location (than using multiple lasers to target various species as traditionally employed). The effort leverages recent advancements made by the proposing team in the area of harsh environment sensing and will include collaborative partners from DOD Labs and the industry who are directly involved in energetics hypersonic vehicle development. The developed instruments will be well suited for many DoD fundamental studies and diagnostic applications, including but not limited to explosives, energetic detonation, rocket engines, gas turbines, automobiles, and fundamental combustion studies. The sensor will do well wherever fast, non-intrusive temperature and species measurements in combustion environments with a large dynamic range are desired. Under this effort, the research team led by the PI will enhance UCFÕs institutional capabilities to explore and provide insightful laser measurements into energetic materials (EMs), hypersonics, lasers, and optical metrology. The research will enhance and expand research capabilities across UCF, one of the largest Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) in the country with more than 70, 000 students, to support a range of DoD applications, including studying the performance of explosives and propellants for weapons systems, hypersonics research, combustion research, and fundamental high-temperature spectroscopy. Undergraduate and graduate students will perform research and STEM education training, which will directly contribute to Ph.D. dissertations and undergraduate honors theses. Working closely with DoD labs, this effort will provide a pipeline for the future DoD workforce by students applying for programs, including internships/jobs/postdoctoral fellowships. In addition, K-12 students will be introduced to the research via existing summer programs at UCF.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- May 13, 2023
- Source ID
- W911NF2310193
Entities
People
- Subith Vasu Sumathi
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Office of the Secretary of Defense
- University of Central Florida