Ultrasensitive Diagnostics for Hypersonic Propulsion Systems

In this SBIR Phase I effort, Los Gatos Research (LGR) proposes to develop an ultrasensitive, multiplexed gas analyzer to simultaneously measure several key combustion species from the turbulent flow field of a air-breathing, hypersonic propulsion system. This analyzer, which is based on LGR’s proprietary Off-Axis ICOS technology, will provide highly accurate, real-time quantification of several combustion products and fuel constituents at numerous locations, enabling the validation and refinement of numerical kinetic models and eventual development of next-generation propulsion systems. In Phase I, the instrument will be fabricated and tested at LGR prior to integration onto a ground-based test engine at a DoD facility. The system will then be refined and delivered to a DoD Propulsions Directorate test site. Final Phase I work will involve developing a Phase II prototype capable of making both extractive and in situ measurements on a variety of engine systems.