In the initial part of the course some topics are presented and discussed which for students with different backgrounds will mean repetition and extension to some degree. The areas that are treated are molecular spectroscopy, combustion, and experimental equipment for laser-based diagnostics (Laser properties, laser types, optics, detectors, optical signal collection). Comparison are made between probe methods and optical methods. A detailed discussion is made of the most important methods for combustion diagnostics. They mainly include Rayleigh scattering, Raman scattering, laser-induced incandescence (LII), laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS), particle-image velocimetry (PIV) and thermographic phosphors. The techniques are discussed from their physical background and the analysis of measurement data performed for evaluation of relevant parameters such as species concentrations, temperature, velocities, particle properties, etc. Emphasis is put on identifying the potential and the limitations of the techniques.
The scientific papers studied by the students in their projects should be close to the front line of research and present extensions of the already discussed techniques. Orientation about new techniques developed within the research field is made. Frequently during course demonstrations are made in the research laboratories of the division to illustrate different parts of the course.
The laboratory exercises are laser-induced incandescence and laser-induced fluorescence. The laboratory exercise on LII treats measurements of soot concentrations in flames, and the one in LIF treats visualisation of flame radicals, such as OH (hydroxyl radical). Both exercises are relatively student-oriented where the students take relatively big part in the assembly, alignment and optimisation of the experimental setup
