Phase change characteristics of energetic solid fuels in turbulent reacting flows

New hydrocarbon fuels with high–energy density content can substantially advance high–thrust, high–temperature, and reduced–size combustion technology. The present work investigates the phase change dynamics of the PCU alkene dirtier, a newly synthesized high-energy density hydrocarbon fuel, in turbulent reacting flows. The shape, location, and velocity of the propellant–gas interface is treated explicitly. A Lagrangian moving grid technique in conjunction with an established body–fitted field equation solver is developed. Owing to the complex flow structure and uneven heat flux distribution along the propellant surface, the interface experiences nonuniform regression between the front and the rear ends. Consistent with experimental observations, the thermal characteristics near the solid-gas interface vary in space and time. The present computational capacity can advance our understanding of phase change, thermal decomposition, and subsequent mixing and burning dynamics of the energetic fuel.