Research at the Laser Diagnostics Laboratory...

is dedicated to scientific research in applying advanced laser diagnostics to investigate combustion characteristics of  alternative and renewable fuels, alternative energy systems and advanced propulsion systems. Efforts are also being made to investigate innovative combustion concepts with higher efficiency and cleaner chemistry. Our objectives are to provide solutions for a new energy infrastructure based on alternative energy sources which are sustainable, efficient and with less impact on our environment.

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Combustion Characterization of Alternative Fuel Blends

One of our primary mission is to provide state of the art combustion characterization of alternative and renewable fuels. This includes coal derived liquid fuels, hydrogen from coal gasification, bio-based fuels as well as energetically enhanced fuels using energetic nanoparticles. Current efforts are being made in a new rapid compression machine (left).

Combustion of Novel Biofuels

The Laser Diagnostics Laboratory is conducting a Department of Energy project to identify combustion characteristics of next generation biofuels. The next generation biofuels will be synthesized using multi-component blends for optimized performance and efficiency in practical automotive and propulsion applications.

Development of Advanced Laser Imaging Strategies

Advanced optical diagnostics strategies (focus on laser-induced-fluorescence 2D imaging) are developed for application in practical combustion systems. Studies include simulation of practical combustion conditions, study of relevant molecular spectroscopy and optimization of multi-spectral excitation and detection strategies. Efforts are underway to develop high speed LIF imaging strategies for species detection and thermometry.

Propulsion and Engine Systems Research

Laser diagnostics aimed at detection of chemical species, temperature and flow velocities in high-pressure and/or supersonic propulsion systems are developed. Similar efforts are also being made for optical diagnostics of combustion in IC engines. The results can be used for optimization of reactor design, testing of new combustion concepts, study of fundamental combustion and fluid dynamics as well as reduction of pollutant byproducts.

Plasma Enhanced Combustion

Laser diagnostics are applied for study of combustion enhanced by electromagnetic radiation. Study is underway in a variable pulsed DC plasma discharge system and a microwave plasma coupled torch to investigate the effects of plasma energy on the chemical reactions during combustion.

Nanoparticle Research in Combustion

Research to study alternative combustion concepts such as oxidation of energetic nanoparticles and fuel manipulation using nanoparticle additives are being carried out in both a conventional flame and in plasma enhanced flames.