Laser ignited engines: progress, challenges and prospects.

Passively Q-switched Nd:YAG/Cr

We report on the design and output performances of a diode pumped, high-peak power Nd:YAG/Cr 4+ :YAG laser with four-beam output. The system posses the ability to chose independently the focus of each laser beam, being seen as a solution for a laser spark with multiple-point ignition. The laser ignition of a gasoline direct injected engine has several advantages in comparison with ignition by e...

Synthesis of Al2O3-ZrO2 Nanocomposite by Mechanical Activated Self-propagating High Temperature Synthesis(MASHS) and Ignited via Laser

By consideration of unique properties of composite Al2O3-ZrO2 such as high toughness, high wear resistant and relative low thermal expansion, in this study, nanocomposite of Al2O3-ZrO2 was produced by Mechanical activated Self propagating High-temperature Synthesis (MASHS) using laser beam for ignition. First Al and ZrO2 powders were mixed in the mole ratio of 1:1 and milled for 1, 3 and 6 hour...

Small Hydro-Power Plants in Kenya: A Review of Status, Challenges and Future Prospects

Small Hydro-power Plants (SHP) are an important source of electricity in many countries. However, little is known about SHP in Kenya. This paper reviews the status, challenges in implementation of SHP and prospects for future development of SHP in Kenya. The paper shows that SHP has not yet fully utilized the available hydro-power potential. The challenges associated with SHP development should...

Challenges and Prospects of European Railways

In the present paper, challenges and prospects of the European railways, along with a proposal for a new strategy policy and specific measures are presented. The declining course of European railways concerning traffic and revenues is first analyzed. Conditions to introduce intra - modal competition are surveyed, among them separation of infrastructure fro...

Catalytic Converters for Small Spark-Ignited Nonhandheld Utility Engines