Skip to main content
Seminar | Energy Systems Division - DO NOT USE

Computational Modeling of Rotating Detonation Engines

ES Seminar

Abstract: Rotating detonation engines (RDEs) are emerging as a practical approach for pressure gain combustion, with the potential to significantly change propulsion and power generation systems. Apart from increased efficiency, RDEs tend to be more compact than conventional deflagration-based combustors and can take radically different form factors. The main challenge in translating the promise of RDEs into reality lies in the ability to extract useful work from the pressure gain due to detonations. Unlike conventional combustion processes, RDEs pose a unique challenge: The stability and structure of the detonation waves are driven by system-live design rather than the components of the combustion itself, but currently available computational and experimental tools are not adequate to solve such problems. In this talk, these challenges will be discussed, along with recent findings from research at University of Michigan.

Bio: Venkat Raman is a professor of aerospace engineering and mechanical engineering at the University of Michigan. He received his Ph.D. in chemical engineering from Iowa State University.