Laser Diagnostics Laboratory for Advanced Energy and Propulsion Research

Advanced Fuels Research

Research in advanced fuels development...

is striving to study combustion characteristics of new renewable and alternative fuel blends of the future. These include carbon neutral biofuels for ground transportation as well as new bio-derived blends for aviation. Departure from the current petroleum based infrastructure is a national priority and our efforts are targeted towards this goal.

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Formulation of Advanced Biofuels

Research is underway to investigate a new low temperature bio-diesel blends which are derived from both carbohydrates and oils in plants. The goal is to introduce advanced biodiesel with both physical properties and combustion characteristics which can be readily adapted to conventional engines.

Supported by the Department of Energy

Bio-derived Jet Fuel Research

Efforts are being made to look at novel bio-derived jet fuel from synthetic kerosene. Air Force is the single largest consumer of fuel in the Department of Defense and the goal is to strengthen our national security by investigating new fuel blends which can blended with JP-8 while being domestically produced from plant derived oils.

In collaboration with Wright Patterson Air Force Base

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Aerosol & Gas Rapid Compression Machine Facility

The Aerosol rapid compression machine (RCM) at MSU is a unique facility which can be used to test combustion kinetics of fuel droplets in addition to that in the gas phase. This is a critical requirement for testing of new fuels with extremely low vapor pressure, and multi-phase fuels enhanced with energetic nanoparticles. The RCM is equipped with a optimized hydraulic brake system for minimizing vibrations after the compression as well as full optical access for laser and optical diagnostics.

Aerosol Rapid Compression Machine

The aerosol RCM is charged with fine mist of liquid droplets which have been generated using an ultrasonic nebulizer. The droplets are inserted into the RCM through a poppet valve assembly at the head end of the combustion chamber.

Left image shows the aerosol charge and combustion process in the RCM.

Supported by the Department of Energy & MSU

Direct Test Chamber (DTC)

The RCM is also equipped with a metered injection system for directly vaporizing the fuel inside the combustion chamber without the use of a separate mixing vessel.

Supported by the Department of Energy & MSU