U.S.-China Cooperative Research (Engineering): Effects of Fuel Properties and Physical Factors on Engine Combustion Processes

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There is a general need for a better understanding of the combustion processes occurring in engine systems. In particular, the detailed physical and chemical processes important in engine ignition, flame propagation, and knock need to be clarified, and fuel property effects and interactions determined. In an effort to address these needs, a joint research program between Tianjin University and Drexel University was initiated in March 1989 under NSF sponsorship; Good progress has been made on this program and will be continued under this award. The work is being carried out by separating and individually studing the two major types of processes occurring in engine systems, i.e., the chemical processes and the physical processes. Drexel University is concentrating on the chemical processes, while Tianjin University is concentrating on the physical processes. This division of labor builds upon the strengths and programs at each university and effectively leverages existing resources. The Drexel effort is focusing on low and intermediate temperature oxidation of hydrocarbons using a variety of laboratory systems, including static and flow reactor systems, to isolate relevant chemical processes. The Tianjin effort is focusing on physical factors, such as surface deposits, test transfer and fluid flow effects, utilizing a variety of laboratory and engine test facilities. Coordination of the individual research effort is leading to identification of important interactions and incorporation of critical experiments for studying these interactions. Successful completion of the research program will lead to a better understanding of the important chemistry and physics in engine combustion and autoignition processes, and consequently to improved engine performance.