Michael P. Burke
Michael’s main research project was the experimental characterization and development of chemical models for the combustion of synthetic gas (hydrogen and carbon monoxide) at typical gas turbine engine conditions. Burning synthetic gas is the final stage of coal-based Integrated Gasification Combined-Cycle (IGCC) systems, offering an opportunity for utilizing an abundant and relatively cheap power generation resource while still controlling air pollutant emissions, achieving high energy conversion efficiencies, and possibly sequestering carbon. He collected data at these conditions and extending the current chemical models to provide the knowledge base necessary for the successful design of reliable and efficient gas turbine engines.
He had been involved in a project focused on the spontaneous ignition of hydrogen and natural gas during high pressure tank ruptures. His group had shown experimentally that hydrogen or natural gas tank leaks can ignite without an external ignition source. They worked to identify causes of spontaneous ignition to prevent this hazard.