The educational and research potential of pulsejet engines

Klaudia Strugarek

a:1:{s:5:"en_US";s:32:"Poznan University of Technology ";}

Aleksander Lasecki

Poznan University of Technology
https://orcid.org/0009-0004-1694-4206

Wojciech Misztal

Poznan University of Technology

Grzegorz Szymański


https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2784-9149


Abstract

Pulsejet engines, though historically niche, offer significant value for contemporary engineering education and experimental research. Their simple construction, low cost, and unique thermodynamic characteristics make them ideal platforms for teaching combustion dynamics, control systems, diagnostics, and structural material performance. This article explores the educational and research potential of pulsejets, presenting a comprehensive overview of combustion properties, fuel flexibility, diagnostic methodologies, and simulation applications, including CFD and digital twins. The study also examines how pulsejets can facilitate alternative fuel testing and support sustainable aviation goals through rapid prototyping and experimentation. The paper draws on contemporary case studies and university-based student projects, emphasizing the practical and interdisciplinary skills these systems help develop. In the context of EU climate and innovation strategies, pulsejets emerge as valuable tools for accelerating technical training and technological progress in propulsion systems.


Keywords:

pulsejet engine, propulsion systems, experimental education

Supporting Agencies

preferred reviewers, Leszek Radziszewski Politechnika Świętokrzyska, Jarosław Korzeb Politechnika Warszawska, Maciej Szkoda Politechnika Krakowska


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Published
2026-10-09

Cited by

Strugarek, K., Lasecki, A., Misztal, W., & Szymański, G. (2026). The educational and research potential of pulsejet engines. Technical Sciences, 29(29), 173–190. https://doi.org/10.31648/ts.12668

Klaudia Strugarek 
a:1:{s:5:"en_US";s:32:"Poznan University of Technology ";}
Aleksander Lasecki 
Poznan University of Technology
https://orcid.org/0009-0004-1694-4206
Wojciech Misztal 
Poznan University of Technology
Grzegorz Szymański 

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2784-9149



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