Chinese researchers have made a major breakthrough in hypersonic flight technology, potentially giving the country an edge in the global race. Led by Yang Qingchun from Beihang University, the advancement focuses on improving scramjet engine performance using a unique secondary combustion method. The new technique involves injecting magnesium powder into the exhaust gases from burning kerosene. This approach nearly doubles the engine’s thrust at Mach 6 speeds (six times the speed of sound) at an altitude of 30 km. The method increased thrust by 86.6% with magnesium making up 13% of the exhaust mass.
It improved combustion efficiency to 65.1% and raised specific thrust from 613 to 1,126 Newton-seconds per kilogram.
Why Magnesium?
Magnesium interacts with leftover water vapor and carbon dioxide from kerosene combustion, triggering a powerful reaction without needing additional oxygen. This fast-burning process adds extra thrust.
Efficient Combustion: Magnesium burns faster than kerosene, using waste gases to boost thrust.
Heat Control: Liquid kerosene cools engine walls, while magnesium combustion stabilizes the supersonic flames.
Enhanced Efficiency: The method maximizes fuel use and keeps engine temperatures lower.
Despite its promise, the technique faces some issues:
Magnesium particles don’t spread evenly at lower concentrations.
Sharp magnesium oxide crystals may damage engine surfaces, requiring durable materials.
Minor design changes can significantly affect performance.
China is advancing its hypersonic research to achieve speeds above Mach 10, while the US is targeting a delayed weapons deployment by September. Yang’s innovation could extend missile range or reduce launch weights, offering strategic advantages.
Future research will focus on improving magnesium particle distribution and testing nano-sized magnesium for better performance across different speeds and conditions.
This breakthrough underscores China's dedication to leading in hypersonic technology, though ensuring stable performance under varying conditions will be crucial for real-world success.
