Detonation initiation techniques for pulse detonation propulsion

Abstract

The paper outlines recent efforts of the research team directed by the author on the development of efficient means for reducing the deflagration-to-detonation transition (DDT) run-up distance and time for liquidfueled air-breathing pulse detonation engine (PDE) applications. The main objective of the studies was to ensure fast DDT in a PDE tube at the lowest possible ignition energy, at the shortest distance, with the lowest pressure loss, and using aviation kerosene TS-1 (Russian analogue of JetA) as fuel and air as oxidizer.