UC Irvine

In this effort, a novel Dual Planar Laser Induced Fluorescence (DPLIF) diagnostic is developed and optimized for characterizing the liquid-liquid interactions in rocket injector sprays. A critical attribute associated with the system is a desire to utilize relatively inexpensive components. The newly developed DPLIF diagnostic consists of a camera system, a laser system, and an optics system. The functionality and accuracy of the DPLIF system was determined through stationary liquid and dynamic spray experiments. The results, while preliminary, indicate that the DPLIF system can accurately represent the spatial interactions of two mixing liquids at the same time. Ultimately, the diagnostic shows promise for improved ability to more comprehensively characterize rocket injector sprays and, ultimately, improve rocket injector design.