Detonative Propulsion

Abstract

This chapter provides short descriptions of the engines/propulsion systems in which detonative combustion can be used to increase performance and the efficiency. Pulsed detonation (PD) and continuously rotating detonation (CRD) propulsion systems offer the highest improvement of the engine efficiency as well as reduction of the engine’s size and mass. Since PD generates also a high level of noise and vibrations most possible application of such engines is for the propulsion of unmanned vehicles and especially for the Attitude Control Systems on satellites and even at Space Stations, where the production of gaseous hydrogen and oxygen can be accomplished using the water electrolysis. However, the most promising is the application of the CRD to all kinds of engines, ranging from air-breathing gas turbines and turbojet engines as well as rockets and combined cycle propulsion systems. Additionally, numerical modeling to study methods of improving mixture formation, detonation initiation, and structure of rotating detonation waves in different engines geometry as well as to calculate pressure gain in detonation chamber and engines efficiency are presented in this chapter too. Also benefits from hydrogen use as a fuel in such propulsion system is discussed and first available results of the application of the hydrogen in future propulsion systems is presented and discussed.