Numerical simulation of radiation in high altitude solid propellant rocket plumes. (May 2019) - Binauld, Quentin
Abstract: Models and computational schemes are presented to simulate the flow field and radiation in solid propellant rocket plumes at high altitude. Different models are developed to calculate plume radiation induced by both the gas and the dispersed phase of alumina particles. Simulations were made to reproduce a 110 km altitude rocket plume and comparisons with experimental data on the plume radiance are presented. Influence of different physical processes on the simulation of the plume flow field and radiation is discussed, such as alumina phase change, scattering and the coupling of radiation with the two-phase flow. Highlights: Models and numerical tools are developed to simulate high altitude rocket plumes. The two-phase compressible flow field is coupled to gas and alumina particle radiation. Specific radiative property models are implemented in Monte Carlo simulations. Supercooling of alumina particles is crucial for accurate prediction of their radiation. The Bow Shock Ultra-Violet II (BSUVII) experiment is satisfactorily reproduced.