Spray and Jet Combustion

Key Research Topics

• Liquid fuel spray atomization and breakup

• Jet-in-crossflow fuel injection dynamics

• Mixing and ignition in high-speed reacting flows

• Multiphase combustion and spray–flow interactions

• Experimental and computational studies of spray combustion

Spray and jet combustion processes play a central role in many aerospace propulsion systems, including gas turbines, rocket engines, and advanced air-breathing propulsion devices. In these systems, liquid fuels are injected into high-speed flows where atomization, mixing, ignition, and combustion occur over extremely short time scales. Understanding the complex interactions between multiphase flow dynamics, chemical reactions, and turbulent mixing is essential for improving combustion efficiency and stability.

At APEL, we investigate fundamental and applied aspects of spray and jet combustion under realistic propulsion conditions. Our research focuses on the dynamics of liquid fuel atomization, spray breakup, and mixing processes in both subsonic and high-speed flow environments. Particular attention is given to fuel injection into crossflow configurations, which are highly relevant to advanced propulsion systems such as scramjet combustors and afterburners.

To better understand these phenomena, we combine advanced optical diagnostics with high-fidelity numerical simulations. High-speed imaging and laser-based diagnostic techniques are used to capture transient spray structures, ignition behavior, and flame evolution. These experimental observations are further supported by computational studies that resolve turbulent flow structures and chemical reaction processes.

Through this integrated experimental and computational approach, APEL aims to improve the fundamental understanding of multiphase combustion phenomena and to contribute to the development of efficient and stable combustion systems for next-generation aerospace propulsion.