Detonation Engine

Military researchers are working on a new type of engine that could save hundreds of millions of dollars in fuel costs annually. Designed to replace jet engines and gas turbines, detonation engines basically offer a more efficient way to produce the high levels of air compression that are needed to power the large generators.

In contrast to conventional combustion engines, which burn fuel continuously, the new technology produces a series of pulsed detonations. However, that creates a new challenge – finding materials that can withstand the higher pressure levels generated by the explosions, which can be up to ten times greater than traditional combustion engines. On the other hand, the payoffs are big – reducing fuel consumption by up to 25 percent.