Analysis of initial cavity flowfields using the direct simulation Monte Carlo method

The operation of a supersonic chemical laser requires mixing of oxidizer and fuel streams. The subsequent reactions produce an excited state of the lasing species which provides the medium for the device. The method of injecting the fuel and oxidizer streams into the cavity represents an important design problem. A description of the flow in the region immediately downstream of the nozzle exit plane is required to determine cavity initial conditions for subsequent analyses of the main cavity flow. The results of the main cavity flow analysis are used to provide initial conditions for diffuser design analysis. The cavity initial conditions must be accurately specified. The present investigation is concerned with the analysis of the complex flow in the initial cavity region by the direct simulation Monte Carlo method. Flowfield calculations for two advanced laser devices are discussed.