Development of a chemical microthruster based on pulsed detonation

Abstract

The development of a microthruster based on gaseous pulsed detonation is presented in this study. The feasibility of cyclic valveless pulsed detonation at frequencies over 100 Hz is first experimentally investigated in a microchannel with 1 mm × 0.6 mm rectangular cross-section. Highly reactive ethylene/oxygen mixtures are utilized to reduce the time and distance required for the reaction wave to run up to detonation in a smooth channel. High-speed visualizations have shown that the reaction waves reach detonative state through highly repeatable flame acceleration and deflagration-to-detonation transition processes in the channel. The validated concepts are implemented for the development of an integrated pulsed detonation microthruster. The microthruster was fabricated using low temperature co-fired ceramic tape technology. The volume of the reaction channel in the microthruster was 58 mm3. Spark electrodes and ion probes were embedded in the ceramic microthruster. The channel and via holes were fabricated using laser cutting techniques. Ion probe measurements showed that the reaction wave propagated at velocities larger than 2000 m s−1 before reaching the channel exit. The pulsed detonation microthruster has been successfully operated at frequencies as high as 200 Hz.