SPECTRAL ENERGIES LLC — Department of Defense STTR Phase I: N23A-T005

Description

Exhaust plumes from high-temperature and high-velocity aircraft engines and rockets present a significant measurement challenge due to their extreme conditions. Current measurement techniques have limited spatial and temporal resolution and are often invasive, limiting the data that can be collected. To address this need, we propose the development of a compact, high-resolution, high-bandwidth optical sensor based on time-resolved coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) spectroscopy. The system will provide highly precise and accurate single-shot, time-resolved measurements of key exhaust parameters, including temperature and simultaneous detection of multiple species concentrations, with high spatial and temporal resolution at 1–10 kHz data rates. The sensor system will be designed to operate in harsh, potentially particle-laden environments with high temperatures—ranging from 500 to 3000 K—and high velocities. To overcome the experimental challenges posed by these environments, we will utilize advanced laser systems, optical designs, and signal processing algorithms. The resulting sensor system will provide unprecedented capabilities for fundamental combustion research as well as practical applications in the design, optimization, and maintenance of high-performance propulsion systems.