Generation of experimental data for validating numerical modelling of launcher engine exhaust chemical composition in ground tests of CH4/O2 thrust chambers

Problem Definition: Publicly available data are inadequate for validating exhaust emission models from CH4/O2 engines. The aim is to identify greenhouse gas emissions in the exhaust plumes of liquid rocket engines and to provide data sets suitable for validating numerical models.
Research Objectives:

Develop laser-based measurement methodology and mobile instrumentation for application on test benches
Perform measurements during sub-scale CH4/O2 static firing tests (at test bench M3.1) for calibration of diagnostic parameters and systematic parametrical study of emission species dependencies on ROF for a fixed chamber pressure
Perform measurements during testing of a sub-scale, high-power CH4/O2 thrust chamber at representatively high chamber pressure and energy density (at test bench P8), including collection of spectroscopic data and accompanying imaging of plume structure
Analyse data for species identification, build database of plume characteristics for different operation conditions
Comparison of laser-based and existing spectroscopic measurement method results, uncertainty analysis

Expected Results:

Published database of exhaust plume measurements for representative engine operating conditions

Secondments:

Centre Euopéen de Recherche et de Formation Avancée en Calcul Scientifique (CERFAS, Toulouse, France, ca. 3 months): alignment on validation measurement requirements
University of Stuttgart (US, Stuttgart, Germany, ca. 7 months): verification of mobile instrumentation under cross-check conditions

Benefits:

You will be working within our international group of > 30 researchers with experience in a broad range of sciences.
You will get in contact with the other members of this international consortium.
You will benefit from the well-structured training program offered by the host institution and the SLICE consortium to develop skills and thorough understanding of space transportation systems and their environmental impact.
You will be employed by the host organization for 36 months.
You will participate in international conferences and secondments to other organisations within the SLICE network and in outreach activities targeted at a wide audience.
A competitive salary according to MSCA regulations (see page 118ff, https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/wp-call/2023-2024/wp-2-msca-actions_horizon-2023-2024_en.pdf ), including a living allowance, a mobility allowance and, if eligible, a family allowance. The stated allowances represent the gross funding amounts. Employer contributions to social security, health insurance, and other statutory costs will be deducted in accordance with the applicable national regulations.



Please find additional information in the Information package for Marie Curie fellows in doctoral networks (https://op.europa.eu/s/z831).