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A Compact Safe Cold-Start (CS2) System for Scramjets using Dilute Triethylaluminum Fuel Mixtures

Award Information
Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Branch: N/A
Contract: NNX11CB64C
Agency Tracking Number: 095133
Amount: $598,970.00
Phase: Phase II
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: A2.02
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2009
Award Year: 2011
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2011-06-01
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2013-05-31
Small Business Information
NY
Manorville, NY 11949-2623
United States
DUNS: 804033277
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Scott Gallimore
 Principal Investigator
 (571) 248-0134
 scott.gallimore@acentlabs.com
Business Contact
 Anthony Castrogiovanni
Title: President
Phone: (631) 801-2616
Email: anthony.castrogiovanni@acentlabs.com
Research Institution
 Stub
Abstract

This proposal leverages a highly successful Phase 1 feasibility effort to further develop a system that satisfies the cold-start requirements of scramjet engines. The system provides energy-dense, low volume hydrocarbon fuel conditioning based on the hydrolysis reaction of triethylaluminum (TEA) with water. TEA is an organometallic liquid that reacts exothermically with water and burns readily in air. In Phase 1, we demonstrated the hydrolysis of TEA in JP fuel within an integrated mixing/injection apparatus to heat and vaporize the liquid hydrocarbon fuel prior to injection in a regeneratively cooled scramjet, as well as auto-ignition of the mixture at elevated TEA concentrations. In Phase 2 we propose to more completely characterize the performance capability of the Phase 1 system using several hydrocarbon fuels to gather data for the design and fabrication of a palletized system. Testing of the palletized system in a direct connect scramjet rig will then be conducted to demonstrate engine ignition capability and to compare the system to other ignition systems under consideration for scramjet vehicles. Packaging in candidate flight vehicles will be carried out using 3D solid modeling to provide gravimetric and volumetric information and to provide designs for practical integrated, safe storage and dispense arrangements.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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