Quantification of Turbulence-Chemistry-Phase Interactions

• Applicant: Fabian Hampp, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Technical Thermodynamics ; Fluid Mechanics
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 456687251

The primary objective of the proposed research is the advancement of fundamental understanding of the interactions between turbulent flow, reaction chemistry and multiple phases that govern the pollutant formation as well as fuel and load flexibility of combustion concepts. The acquired understanding is of paramount importance for the development of cleaner, more sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies. Nearly emission-free operation becomes feasible when used in combination with carbon-neutral synthetic liquid fuels. However, the sought flexibility and low emissions can currently not be achieved simultaneously due to the lack of suitable injection and combustion concepts. The complexity of the inherent nonlinearities and multilateral interactions on multiple scales is accompanied by a lack of quantitative data. The latter is essential for generating fundamental understanding and enabling the corresponding technology development. The present research project closes this gap. To be specific, the influence of gas-phase turbulence, fuel property and reaction chemistry on liquid injection and combustion processes are quantified. This facilitates optimising mixture homogeneity and suppressing pollutant formation and emission. For this purpose, optical diagnostics for the simultaneous acquisition of the turbulent flow field, fuel and reaction chemistry representative scalars and multiple phases are developed that render the delineation of the involved non-linear and multilateral interactions feasible. In addition, a novel hybrid data analysis method is constructed that interlinks the advantages of experimental and numerical approaches. The methodology facilitates a quantitative and, in comparison to individually applied methods, a more comprehensive description of the involved physico- and thermochemical processes. The gained understanding shall support the development of fuel and load flexible combustion concepts that enable close-to emission-free operation when used in combination with carbon-neutral liquid fuels. Combustion systems of this type offer distinct advantages for the use in innovative aero-engine concepts and gas turbines for power generation. Related technologies further offer a low risk solution to decarbonise the energy, industry and transportation sectors and are essential to assure the current standard of energy security, continuous supply and mobility with low carbon footprint.

• DFG Programme: Independent Junior Research Groups
• International Connection: United Kingdom
• Major Instrumentation: Intensifier Relay Optic Unit
• Instrumentation Group: 5430 Hochgeschwindigkeits-Kameras (ab 100 Bilder/Sek)
• Cooperation Partners: Professor Rune Peter Lindstedt; Dr. Salvador Navarro-Martinez