Theoretical analysis and numerical validation of the mechanisms controlling composition noise

A new definition of entropy fluctuation is provided in this paper, that allows properly separating entropy and mixture composition fluctuations. This decomposition into linearly independent variables prevents from overestimating compositional noise in indirect noise prediction. When considering quasi one-dimensional flow in nozzles, a new resulting system of linearized Euler equations is obtained. Two analytical solutions of this system of equations are investigated in this study, one dedicated to low-frequency perturbations and another one for all frequency perturbations. This new theory is then validated by comparing the model predictions with direct numerical simulation of nozzle flows in which composition fluctuations are pulsed. To do so, new Navier-Stokes characteristics boundary conditions to account for the new properly defined entropy wave are provided. Furthermore, non-reflecting inlet boundary conditions have been newly derived, relaxing on the axial mass-flow rate, static temperature and species mass fractions. Finally, a parametric study based on an air-kerosene (equivalent C 10 H 20 ) mixture and an ideal framework shows that composition noise can reach a maximum of 10% of entropy noise for lean combustion and choked nozzle while for rich combustion, composition noise and entropy noise show comparable levels.