Detonation Dynamics Visualization From Megahertz Imaging

Abstract

Megahertz-rate imaging measurements are made in a non-premixed rotating detonation engine (RDE) and a premixed detonation tube. For the RDE, this includes 1 MHz broadband chemiluminescence imaging. The MHz-rate imaging enables high spatiotemporal resolution of the detonation propagation enabling optical emulation of the traditional soot foil technique used to measure detonation cell size. A key contribution of this work is that it represents the first direct experimental visualization of the cellular structure in an RDE. The detonation tube is used as a diagnostic development platform for the RDE, and measurements include 1 MHz particle image velocimetry and 10 MHz broadband chemiluminescence imaging. Vorticity in the detonation tube is between 50000 – 130000 s-1 for up to 15