A two-year project to analyse and improve the performance of alternative fuels in modern combustion systems using laser diagnostics is underway at Iowa State University.
The laser-based sensors can capture images of the combustion flame at millions of frames per second to record data about what is happening within the mix of fuel and air. By selecting lasers of different wavelengths the sensors can record where pollutants such as soot, nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide are being formed, identify unburned fuel and capture data about fuel sprays and energy release.
"The goal is to probe this harsh environment to provide the knowledge required to reduce pollutant emissions and enable the utilisation of alternative fuels," says Iowa State University assistant mechanical engineering professor Terry Meyer.
The university's work is supported by an $87,000 grant from the state's Grow Iowa Values Fund and a contribution of products and engineering expertise from Goodrich's West Des Moines-based engine components unit. The university says Meyer's research is drawing interest and support from NASA and the US Air Force.
Source: FlightGlobal.com