Advanced Propulsion Systems and Ignition Technologies for Next-Generation Aerospace Applications
Not stated
- Funding
- Self-Funded PhD Students Only
- Application deadline
- Year-round applications
About the project
About the Project The project focuses on the development and investigation of advanced propulsion systems and ignition technologies aimed at improving the efficiency, reliability, safety, and environmental performance of next-generation aerospace and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platforms. Modern aerospace systems face increasing demands for higher propulsion efficiency, reduced emissions, enhanced operational flexibility, and reliable ignition under a wide range of operating conditions. Addressing these challenges requires innovative approaches to propulsion design, combustion control, and ignition system integration. The project will explore advanced propulsion concepts, including high-efficiency propeller-driven systems, hybrid-electric propulsion, gas turbine engines, rotating detonation engines, pulse detonation engines, and sustainable aviation fuel combustion systems. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding the complex interactions between aerodynamics, fuel injection, ignition processes, combustion dynamics, and propulsion performance. Advanced numerical simulations, including CFD, combustion modelling and multiphysics analyses will be employed to investigate ignition mechanisms, flame propagation, combustion stability and propulsion efficiency. The project will examine innovative ignition technologies such as plasma-assisted ignition, laser ignition, microwave ignition and advanced spark ignition systems. These technologies offer the potential to improve ignition reliability, extend lean combustion limits, reduce fuel consumption and enhance engine operability in challenging environments, including high-altitude and low-temperature conditions. A key objective is to establish design methodologies and optimization strategies for propulsion and ignition systems that maximize thrust-to-weight ratio, fuel efficiency, operational reliability and environmental sustainability. The project will also assess the integration of advanced sensors, control systems and artificial intelligence techniques for real-time combustion monitoring and adaptive engine control. Expected outcomes include validated propulsion and ignition models, improved understanding of combustion and ignition physics, novel system designs and technology demonstrators suitable for future aerospace applications. The research will contribute to the development of cleaner, more efficient propulsion technologies, supporting advances in sustainable aviation, UAV operations, space transportation, and next-generation aerospace engineering.