Scientists from Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) and NUST MISIS have created a mathematical model that allows predicting the ignition moment of self-igniting fuel for space and aviation systems. The technology can calculate ignition delay with an accuracy of 85–90% and can become the basis for creating safer next-generation engines.
The new model describes the complex process of liquid fuel transitioning to combustion and simultaneously considers several factors that were previously difficult to combine in a single calculation.
Self-igniting fuels begin to burn on their own, without an external heat source or spark. When the combustible component comes into contact with an oxidizer, a chemical reaction is initiated, and the fuel ignites. These compositions are used in space and aviation technology, where rapid start-up and high reliability of the propulsion system are particularly important.
The main problem with such fuels lies in the difficulty of predicting the ignition moment. It is influenced by fuel droplet size, temperature, evaporation rate, vapor mixing, and the course of chemical reactions. Previously existing computational models could not accurately determine when the combustion process would begin.
The new development takes into account heat exchange within the fuel droplet, substance evaporation, gas mixture formation, and chemical transformations in both liquid and gas phases. Tests have shown that the model's calculations deviate from experimental data by no more than 15% when droplet sizes change and approximately 10% under different temperature conditions.
In the future, the technology can be used in the design of space engines and other power plants where controlled and safe fuel ignition is required.