Detonation initiation by controlled triggering of electric discharges

It has been proved experimentally that the use of a sequence of relatively weak igniters with properly tuned triggering times allows one to initiate detonation in premixed propane-oxygen-enriched air and propane-air mixtures at distances as short as 0.6-0.7 in in a 2-in.-(51-mm-) diam tube at normal initial conditions. Simple one-dimensional calculations have been used to get better insight into the mechanism of detonation onset. The proposed technique of detonation initiation presents a promising approach for pulse detonation engine applications.