Polymer Additive Could Prevent Jet Fuel Fires

Oct-03-15 A new jet fuel additive that keeps the fuel from exploding could reduce the number of fatalities in the event of a plane crash by preventing post-impact fires.

Jet engines prep their fuel by mixing it with compressed air to create a fine mist. When ignited, the mist produces a controlled explosion that provides the thrust for the engine. However, this mist also catches fire easily after a crash.

To help prevent post-crash first, a team at Caltech created a polymer additive made up of long chains of molecules called “megasupramolecules” that are joined by chemical connectors. Under normal operations, these connectors will separate as the fuel leaves the fuel injection nozzle, forming the mist for the controlled explosions. However, if the mist is not immediately ignited, the connections will reform as the droplets make contact, resulting in a less explosive mixture.

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[DISCOVERY.COM]
[CALTECH.EDU]

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