Harnessing Hydrogen’s POtential With Rotating Detonation

ongoing

H2POWRD seeks to harness hydrogen's potential with rotating detonation combustion (RDC) integrated with a gas turbine (RDGT). Rotating detonation is a paradigm breaking technology that revolutionizes the thermodynamic process to be significantly more efficient. This efficiency leap also introduces new challenges in the form of unsteady, transonic flow at the turbine inlet and higher heat transfer. Building on insights of a previous ITN (INSPIRE), which underscored the potential benefits of RDC, H2POWRD focuses on efficiently harnessing the unsteady outflow from the combustion of H2 in an RDGT. This project revolves around three primary areas of investigation: (1) delving into the fundamental aspects of the combustion, encompassing reactant injection, mixing, detonation propagation, and heat transfer; (2) optimizing the transition region between the combustor and the turbine to tailor Mach number, pressure, and velocity fluctuations for turbine compatibility; and (3) refining the aerodynamics of rotors and stators to maximize efficiency within relevant design philosophies and Mach number regimes. Employing a comprehensive approach, H2POWRD combines experimental and numerical methods to gain profound insights into both individual component physics and their intricate interactions. The project's outcomes are expected to deepen our understanding of critical scientific questions surrounding the unique features of RDC detonation waves, exhaust flow conditioning for targeted properties, and the design of turbines adept at handling heightened levels of unsteadiness. Beyond scientific inquiry, H2POWRD will showcase the technology's potential and delineate pathways toward realizing higher efficiency and reduced fuel consumption. Moreover, H2POWRD is committed to fostering sustainable innovation in research and in a training program designed to prepare the next generation of researchers with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of RDGT technology.