Simulation Study on Continuous Propellant Supply and Laser Ignition

Laser ignition employs laser energy to induce chemical reactions within the propulsion system to generate thrust. The propellant is delivered through a pipeline to form a liquid column, which is then ignited by a focused pulsed laser, resulting in violent combustion and decomposition into high-pressure gases. The resultant shock wave can obstruct the propellant flow in the upstream channel, thereby impacting subsequent ignition events. To ensure sustained thrust output, it is crucial to synchronize and control both the propellant supply and the pulse ignition process. This study simulates the gasification and expansion process of propellant ignition and investigates the coordination of continuous propellant supply with laser pulse ignition through detailed simulations. Based on these simulations, a predictive model for thrust generation is developed.