Similarity solution of the boundary-layer equations for laser heatedflows

Abstract

The laminar boundary-layer equations with local similarity approximation are solved in order to estimate the heat transfer rate to the wall in a laser-heated rocket thruster using pure hydrogen, where the average temperature of the hot plasma core is about 14,000 K and the core Reynolds number based on nozzle throat diameter is about 2000. Under these conditions, the density-viscosity product at the wall can be 10 times the freestream value, and the hydrogen is completely dissociated. Hence the boundary layer equations with variable transport properties are solved by a quasi-linearization technique, and the equilibrium properties of hydrogen are used in the calculations. Velocity profiles are obtained, and the wall shear and wall stagnation enthalpy gradient are plotted against the pressure gradient parameter.