Abstract

Detonation studies are very important in many aspects of science. One on the most important feature in a development of any new technology are basics. Once we can understand how does detonation, auto-ignition or deflagration-to-detonation transition (DDT) take place, we are able to create sophisticated, new, efficient mechanisms using the alternative combustion. Base on the ganied knowledge we can also improve safety of any system dealing with reactive mixtures.
The purpose of my research is to investigate a chapter of detonation, namely shock wave – boundary layer interaction (SWBLI) triggered DDT and phenomena connected to it like flame acceleration.
Hydrogen being an ecological fuel is very attractive now for engineers and is already actively used in rocket engines. However, peculiarities of hydrogen combustion kinetics, the presence of zones of inverse dependence of reaction rate on pressure, etc. prevent from wide use of hydrogen engines.

Specific examples

The schematic scenario of the mechanism of SWBLI triggering DDT has been developed. At the first stage there is a propagating flame and precursor shock moving in front of the flame with some distance. The flame starts producing weak shock waves, which are slightly raising temperature of the boundary layer initially heated up by the precursor shock wave. At the point when temperature is high enough auto-ignition happens in the vicinity of the wall. If the auto-ignition do not go to detonation, a new flame can develop and propage with supersonic speed before turning to detonation.

Future prospects

The aim for the future research is to explain the DDT and auto-ignition process fully.

Research facilities and equipments

Detonation tube facilities