Laser Ignition System for I. C. Engines : Review

Abstract

Laser is a device, which emits electromagnetic radiation through optical amplification based on simulation emission of photons. "LASER" means Light Amplification by Simulated Emission of Radiation. Recent research in laser-induced ignition (LI) of air-fuel mixtures in internal combustion (IC) engines revealed that it has several advantages over conventional electrical spark ignition (SI). Spark plugs offer only limited possibilities for optimizing engine efficiency, due to their fixed position within a cylinder and the protrusion of electrodes which disturb the cylinder geometry and can quench the flame kernel. Laser radiation on the other hand is non-invasive and has greater flexibility in terms of the ignition position, allowing the possibility of multipoint ignition. Advantages of laser ignition include; reduced emissions, more stable combustion and lower idle speeds, when compared to conventional spark ignition. Current work reviews the key advances in Laser Ignition of internal combustion engines made by a number of research groups. The opportunities, challenges and prospects for future implementation of laser ignition in next generation internal combustion engines are also explored.