Pulse Detonation Combustion: Fuel, Emissions, and Ejector-Based Efficiency Optimization

Pulse detonation combustion (PDC) offers higher theoretical thermodynamic efficiency than conventional internal combustion engines by using shock waves to compress and ignite a reacting fuel-air mixture, rather than relying on conventional flame propagation. Ejector technologies further improve this process by enabling exhaust gas recirculation, reducing pollutant emissions from the combustor.This Research Topic examines the fundamental gas dynamics and thermodynamics of the pulse detonation cycle, including its basis in the Humphrey cycle. It welcomes studies assessing conventional aviation fuels (e.g., Jet-A, kerosene, acetylene) alongside alternative fuels such as algae and microalgae biofuels, which typically require higher initial mass flux and temperature to sustain detonation. This Research Topic aims to advance understanding of detonation-based propulsion and combustion systems, supporting the development of more efficient, lower-emission technologies for aerospace and energy applications.We invite contributions addressing:• Numerical strategies to reduce energy losses and accelerate the deflagration-to-detonation transition, minimizing flame-front propagation delay• Simulation and experimental studies of alkane and alkene fuel-air mixtures across varying equivalence ratios (including stoichiometric, φ=1), focusing on thermal and prompt NOx formation, specific fuel consumption, and pulse timing effects• CFD analysis of pollution formation in pulse detonation combustors, informing pilot fuel selection for future systems• Combustion flame propagation physics and turbulence effects on emissions and combustion efficiency• Optimization of shrouded ejector geometry (e.g., via soft-computing methods) and its influence on natural frequency and vortex generation• Detonation wave propagation and speed across liquid and gaseous fuels in channels with varying vortex-generator geometries (triangular, rectangular, semi-circular)• Experimental characterization of detonation wave flow structure and the effect of fuel viscosity on wave propagation speed. Topic editors: Krishna Murari Pandey, Dr. Pinku Debnath, Kumari Ambe Verma Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83918/pulse-detonation-combustion-fuel-emissions-and-ejector-based-efficiency-optimization