High-speed multiphase flow in plume-surface interaction

Powered descent on the Moon and Mars relies on rocket exhaust plumes to impinge on the ground covered with granular soil, creating dense particle clouds and high-speed ejecta, which can pose danger to the spacecraft and astronauts aboard. A major challenge in this area is the lack of high-quality time-resolved experimental datasets for unit experiments or ground tests that can illustrate particle-particle and particle-gas interactions in extreme conditions. To better understand these processes, I plan to use experimental methods to unveil the physical mechanisms that occur in plume-surface interaction. My objectives to achieve this goal are as follows: i) Continue the development of the particle-laden high-speed jet facility in our laboratory to study supersonic flows, ii) investigate particle physics and its effect on flow properties prior and during impingement, and iii) collaborate with NASA facilities for ground tests. The proposed research plan will support the following Level 2 NASA Technology Areas (TA) areas: TA 7 – Exploration Destination Systems and TA 9 – Entry, Descent, and Landing (EDL).

Using a combination of high-speed flow diagnostics (focused Schlieren and Shadowgraph imaging) as well as high-speed velocimetry (ultra-high-speed particle tracking velocimetry and particle image velocimetry), we will obtain high-fidelity time-resolved experimental data that will reveal how particles travel during plume-surface interaction in landing-relevant conditions. Specifically, we will gain information on particle velocity, acceleration, and directionality, which will help NASA scientists design spacecraft to mitigate plume ejecta risks, as well as, help validate their simulations for plume impingement dynamics. The technology readiness level (TRL) for ejecta dynamics during power descent will increase from 2 (limited experimental data available) to 3 (with successful unit experiments), and it may also reach 5 (with successful ground tests in a relevant environment).

This project will result in information on particle velocity, acceleration, and directionality, which will help NASA scientists design spacecraft to mitigate plume ejecta risks, as well as, help validate their simulations for plume impingement dynamics.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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