Numerical investigation of parametric effects on the partial catalytic ignition of hydrogen peroxide/kerosene in a lab-scale rocket engine

The hydrogen peroxide/kerosene rocket engine with partial catalytic autoignition offers expanded ignition limits, reduced engine weight, and enhanced combustion efficiency, positioning it as a promising green alternative to toxic hypergolic propellant engines. This study investigates the partial catalytic ignition process of hydrogen peroxide/kerosene in a lab-scale rocket engine using Large Eddy Simulation. The simulation models were validated against optical diagnostic data from ignition experiments. Key parameters, including local momentum ratio, hydrogen peroxide concentration, decomposition gas temperature, and catalytic ratio were analysed to assess their effects on ignition delay, kernel initiation, and flame propagation. The results reveal that ignition delay is primarily governed by physical processes such as atomization, evaporation, and mixing, with minimal impact from chemical delay. A balanced local momentum ratio near 1.0 is identified as optimal for minimizing ignition delay while ensuring stable flame propagation. Higher hydrogen peroxide concentration and decomposition gas temperature reduce both physical and chemical ignition delays, promoting faster flame propagation. Additionally, an optimal catalytic ratio of 90 % was found to minimize ignition delay by balancing the effects of enhanced atomization and evaporative cooling. This study provides insights into the dynamics mechanism of the partial catalytic ignition process in hydrogen peroxide/kerosene rocket engines, potentially contributing to ignition strategy optimization.