A Modeling/Experimental Program for Nano-Energetic Particles

An engineering computational model is proposed to investigate ignition, combustion and performance of nano-energetic particles in a variety of oxidizing environments, including those found in rockets and air breathing propulsion devices. The computational model will include appropriate models for the bulk, oxide, and gas-phase, include phase changes in the oxide layer with subsequent changes in diffusivity, and will take into account various other physics, such as alloying, coating, and oxide layer treatments. An experimental program will be carried out to aid in model development and for model validation. Validation experiments will be conducted at the University of Illinois shock tube facility, and will be carried out under relevant conditions for the application, including at elevated pressures, elevated ambient temperatures, appropriate levels of particle loading, and environment relevant gases. The commercialization target is the development of a computational model to predict the combustion characteristics of nano-energetic particles in various oxidizing environments. These include those commonly found in rocket propulsion chambers and in air-breathing propulsion devices using traditional fuels such as JP-8 and RP-1. BENEFIT: We plan pathways to two commercial products: software and engineering services. A validated code will be available, derived from this work. We anticipate a commercial quality code providing great flexibility in modeling due to its modular, multiple-physics module structure. Several DoD mission agencies have interest in nano-particles as fuel additives (e.g., Army, NASA and Air Force). U.S. industry and government agencies will benefit from the capabilities of a flexible, validated modeling package. Analytical and consulting services will be available based on the validated capabilities at the end of Phase II. These services are needed by the DoD components and others designing fuels with nano-energetic particles.