IIT Kanpur’s detonation research breakthrough to revolutionise aerospace engines, industrial safety

Pioneering research in detonations by IIT Kanpur experts may lead to more efficient engines for military aircraft and spacecraft, enhanced industrial safety, accident prevention, environmental protection, and advanced space research.

The institute’s Aerospace Engineering Department has unveiled a Detonation Tube Research Facility (DTRF), successfully demonstrating detonation wave propagation in a laboratory setting, a first in India.

According to Prof Ajay Vikram Singh, project leader, “DTRF will explore detonation physics to advance combustion and propulsion knowledge. We’re studying flame acceleration mechanisms in confined spaces to prevent severe explosions.”

Research at DTRF will prevent mining, industrial, and home accidents, predict wildfire paths, increase high-speed detonation-based engine efficiency, strengthen safety protocols in oil, gas, and pharmaceutical industries, and enhance understanding of supernovas.

Funded by Aeronautics Research and Development Board, Defence Research and Development Organisation, and Indian Space Research Organisation, this project will advance aerospace applications and support studies on flame acceleration, detonation, and industrial safety.

Detonation-based engines may offer up to 25% greater fuel efficiency, higher energy density and fewer moving parts, making them ideal for space exploration and military aircraft.