Time-resolved Measurements of Temperature and Product Mass Fractions within Detonation-based Combustion Devices at Elevated Pressures and Temperatures

The Phase I research effort proposed here is to design and demonstrate first-generation laser-absorption-based sensors for time-resolved measurements of combustion-product mass fractions and gas temperature within the detonation channels and at the nozzle exit plane of rotating-detonation-engine (RDE) systems. An important element of this work will be the development of criteria to optimize the sensor design (absorption transition selection and modulation strategy) for optimum sensor performance for specific RDE operation conditions. Assuming Phase I success, the Phase II work will optimize and construct a second-generation prototype sensor for testing at DoD aeroengine test facilities, improve the design to account for lessons learned, and deliver a validated and optimized third-generation sensor for RDE research to the designated DoD point of contact.