An investigation into the ignition of aluminum-based water slurries by ultrasound is proposed. This technique may circumscribe the problems associated with atomization and the protective oxide layer on the aluminum particles. Ultrasound has been shown to be capable of producing temperatures above 3000 K and pressures up to 500 atm due to high speed interparticle collisions. A 2 kW generator ducted through a catenary-shaped horn to produce an intensity of 20 kW/cm2 will be used to produce an estimated 10 kW thermal power. Ferric oxide will be added to the slurry initially because it will increase the heat release by aluminum oxidation, with the hope of stabilizing the reaction. The award is made through the SGER program. It offers the opportunity to prove the concept of acoustic ignition for energetic, continuously flowing slurries, which could provide a concentrated energy source producing highly elevated temperatures.
