Laser-Generated Fire Model for Fuel-Backed Composite Structures

ABSTRACT: Physical Sciences Inc. with the assistance of their partners SURVICE Engineering and ITT Engineering propose to build a Laser Generated Fire Prediction Model (LGFPM) for laser irradiated aircraft composite fuel tanks. Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) are a new potential threat to our combat aircraft, and a major concern is lasers that could penetrate fuel tanks and ignite fuel. A working model for laser beam propagation, fuel tank damage and fuel ignition is needed for aircraft survivability analysis. The proposed program will define and model the physical mechanisms for laser initiated fuel ignition to create a model that will support current survivability analysis tools. BENEFIT: The proposed work will be the beginning of the crucial task of survivability analyses and the possibility of retrofitting and reengineering of Air Force weapon systems to make them less vulnerable to an adversary"s DEWs. We will begin with a working verified model for laser initiation of aircraft fuel fires. This will lead to retrofitted thermal protection materials, and to modest design changes in current weapons systems, and then ultimately to the design of future weapons which are inherently resistant to DEW radiation. The PSI, SURVICE, and ITT team"s experience in laser effects and laser lethality, weapon system survivability, and RF weapon lethality against aerospace targets will provide valuable support to the US weapons builders, helping them to design and build weapons which are highly resistant to DEW attack.