Chinese Researchers Introduce Revolutionary Hypersonic Technology Advancement

Chinese researchers have introduced a revolutionary advancement in hypersonic flight technology. This groundbreaking development, led by Yang Qingchun from Beihang University, has the potential to propel China ahead in the global hypersonic race.

The innovation hinges on a secondary combustion technique that significantly enhances the thrust of scramjet engines.

Key Features of the Breakthrough 

1. Innovative Secondary Combustion Technique

– Injects magnesium powder into exhaust gases from kerosene combustion.

– Nearly doubles thrust under Mach 6 conditions at 30km altitude.

2. Significant Test Results

– Boosted thrust by 86.6% using magnesium at 13% exhaust mass.

– Achieved 65.1% combustion efficiency and an increase in specific thrust from 613 to 1,126 Newton-seconds per kilogram.

3. Magnesium’s Role in the Process

– Utilises residual water vapor and carbon dioxide from kerosene combustion as oxidizers.

– Releases explosive energy through rapid exothermic reactions, without requiring atmospheric oxygen.

Design Innovations and Advantages

• Efficient Combustion: Magnesium burns faster than kerosene, leveraging waste gases to produce additional thrust.
• Heat Management: Liquid kerosene cools engine walls while magnesium combustion stabilises supersonic flames.
• Unprecedented Efficiency: Maximises fuel use and reduces surface temperatures.

Challenges and Limitations

• Supersonic Turbulence: Poor magnesium particle dispersion at lower concentrations.
• Engine Longevity: Sharp magnesium oxide crystals risk damaging engine surfaces, necessitating erosion-resistant materials.
• Design Sensitivity: Small changes in design parameters can significantly impact efficiency.

Global Context and Implications

1. Racing Ahead

– China pushes for hypersonic technology beyond Mach 10, while the US plans delayed weapon deployment by September.

– Yang’s design could extend missile ranges or reduce launch weights.

2. Future Research Directions

– Refining particle mixing techniques for variable-speed flight.

– Testing nano-sized magnesium for improved efficiency in diverse conditions.

This breakthrough symbolises China’s commitment to securing leadership in hypersonic technology.

However, achieving operational reliability under variable conditions remains critical for its success.