Rate limiting constraints in phase-change-materials (PCM) for miniature aircraft propulsion systems

Matan Feldman, Dan Michaels, Eran Sher

Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperpeer-review

Abstract

Micro Aerial Vehicles require extremely lightweight propulsion systems. This work examines the possibility of using a Phase-Change Material propulsion system, in which the transformation rate from liquid to vapor has a prominent role. The transformation is initiated by nucleation of vapor bubbles due to fast depressurization, followed by nuclei growth till they coalesce, forming a continuous vapor phase which later drive a turbine. The limiting rate of phase transition is investigated in terms of the critical properties of several fluids and their initial conditions. Out of 11 investigated fluids, Hydrogen was found to provide the most promising results in terms of specific power and energy. However, when power and energy densities are to be considered, Neon may be preferable.

Original languageEnglish
Pages979-989
Number of pages11
StatePublished - 1 Jan 2020
Externally publishedYes
Event60th Israel Annual Conference on Aerospace Sciences, IACAS 2020 - Tel Aviv and Haifa, Israel
Duration: 4 Mar 20205 Mar 2020

Conference

Conference60th Israel Annual Conference on Aerospace Sciences, IACAS 2020
Country/TerritoryIsrael
CityTel Aviv and Haifa
Period4/03/205/03/20

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Aerospace Engineering

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Rate limiting constraints in phase-change-materials (PCM) for miniature aircraft propulsion systems'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this