Two-Day Technical Training by Dr. Steven Heister

On 17–18 September 2025, the H2POWRD network hosted a two-day technical training led by Dr. Steven Heister from Purdue University, held at the MAR Building, TU Berlin. The training brought together all Doctoral Candidates (DCs) and focused on foundational and advanced topics in Rotating Detonation Rocket Engines (RDRE) and detonation-based propulsion systems.

Key topics included:

• Introduction to detonation propulsion and wave dynamics

• RDRE chamber and injector design principles

• Air-breathing and rocket propulsion applications

• Experimental diagnostics and performance modelling

• Propellant behaviour, combustion challenges, and heat flux analysis

The sessions were interactive and well-received, with DCs engaging in discussions around practical applications, performance limitations, and ongoing research efforts. This training laid a strong technical foundation for the fellows as they begin their research work within the H2POWRD project.

Dr. Heister and all DCs gather for a group photo during training, symbolizing teamwork and collaboration in their shared journey.

Dr. Heister delivers a detailed training session on CH₄-H₂ blends, presenting data and graphs to illustrate his points at Purdue University.

Dr. Heister engaging with participants during training session, explaining key concepts.

Discusses fluid dynamics, focusing on Purdue's Gas/Gas RDE developed between 2015 and 2017

Participants engaging in a dynamic Q&A session during the training