ZAP Lab
Research Field
Welcome to ZAPLAB! I am Yueh-Heng Li, and it is my privilege to lead ZAPLAB, which stands for Zic and Partner's Lab. The name reflects the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of our research. I guide our team with the mission to explore diverse scientific fields and foster partnerships that drive innovation. At ZAPLAB, we welcome students and collaborators worldwide to join us in tackling global challenges in energy and aerospace technologies.
My research focuses on non-carbon combustion technologies, including hydrogen combustion, ammonia combustion, and metal combustion, particularly iron. These sustainable and carbon-neutral solutions are revolutionizing clean energy development. Among them, iron combustion stands out as a recyclable, high-energy-density alternative to traditional fuels. Through collaborations with industry partners, we aim to translate these innovations into practical, scalable applications.
To support our efforts, ZAPLAB utilizes advanced laser diagnostic techniques such as Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence (PLIF), and Laser-Induced Incandescence (LII). These tools allow us to precisely measure flow dynamics, chemical species distributions, and soot characteristics, providing critical insights for optimizing combustion processes and enhancing propulsion systems.
In the field of electric propulsion, my work advances cutting-edge technologies, including pulse plasma thrusters (PPTs), vacuum cathode arc thrusters (VCATs), ion thrusters, and Hall effect thrusters. These systems are pivotal for modern space exploration, offering efficient and adaptable propulsion solutions. Collaborating with industry partners, we ensure our research aligns with real-world applications and contributes to the development of next-generation space technologies.
At ZAPLAB, I strive to combine experimental rigor with theoretical depth, fostering an environment where students and researchers can thrive. By partnering with academia and industry, we bridge the gap between fundamental science and practical innovation, driving progress in energy and aerospace engineering.
I invite you to join ZAPLAB and collaborate with us to make groundbreaking advancements. Feel free to contact me at yueheng@mail.ncku.edu.tw for more information or to explore partnership opportunities.
ZAPLAB, short for Zic and Partner's Lab, is a multidisciplinary research hub led by Prof. Yueh-Heng Li at the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU). The lab focuses on advancing cutting-edge technologies in non-carbon combustion, such as hydrogen, ammonia, and iron combustion, as well as plasma propulsion systems, including pulse plasma thrusters (PPTs), vacuum cathode arc thrusters (VCATs), ion thrusters, and Hall effect thrusters. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, ZAPLAB employs advanced diagnostic tools like Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence (PLIF), and Laser-Induced Incandescence (LII) to deepen understanding and optimize system performance. Collaborating with industry partners, ZAPLAB bridges the gap between fundamental research and practical applications, driving innovation in energy and aerospace technologies while fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment for researchers worldwide.
Research Themes at ZAPlab
1. Electric Propulsion
ZAPlab is dedicated to the research and development of advanced electric propulsion systems for space applications. Our work spans multiple thrust technologies, including:
- Pulse Plasma Thrusters (PPTs): Compact and robust systems ideal for micro- and nanosatellite maneuvering.
- Vacuum Cathode Arc Thrusters (VCATs): High-efficiency propulsion using cathodic arc discharges under vacuum conditions.
- Hall Effect Thrusters (HETs): Widely used in modern spacecraft for their balance of thrust and efficiency.
- Ion Thrusters: Known for high specific impulse, suitable for long-duration deep-space missions.
Our research focuses on discharge physics, electrode design, propellant-material interaction, and performance optimization through a combination of experimental diagnostics and plasma modeling. The goal is to develop compact, high-performance, and reliable electric propulsion systems tailored for the next generation of space missions.
2. Combustion Science
The Combustion Science program at ZAPlab investigates the fundamental mechanisms of energy release and flame dynamics in both conventional and novel combustion systems. We explore ignition behavior, flame propagation, thermal runaway, and emission characteristics across a wide range of fuels and operating conditions. Using advanced laser diagnostics, high-speed imaging, and numerical simulation, we aim to enhance combustion efficiency and reduce pollutant emissions, contributing to cleaner energy technologies.
3. Carbon-Free and Carbon-Neutral Energy Systems (Iron Combustion & Bioenergy)
ZAPlab integrates the study of iron combustion and bioenergy conversion to pave the way for a sustainable energy future.
- Iron Combustion: We investigate the use of iron as a carbon-free recyclable fuel, where iron powder combusts in air to release energy without CO₂ emissions. The oxidized form (iron oxide) can then be regenerated using green hydrogen, forming a closed-loop cycle. This approach offers a promising solution for high-temperature heat applications and industrial decarbonization.
- Bioenergy: Our bioenergy research focuses on converting biomass into useful fuels and chemicals through pyrolysis, gasification, and combustion. We study the reaction mechanisms, emissions, and energy efficiencies of various bio-based feedstocks, particularly agricultural and forestry residues. The goal is to produce carbon-neutral fuels and support the transition to renewable energy systems.
- Rising Star Research Grants (「明日之星」研究獎助), National Cheng Kung University. (2017、2019)
- Ta-You Wu Memorial Award (吳大猷先生紀念獎), Ministry of Science and Technology. (2016)
- Outstanding Young Scholar Grants (優秀年輕學者研究計畫), Ministry of Science and Technology (2016、2019) and National Science and Technology, (2023), Taiwan.
- Postdoctoral Scholar Research Award (國科會博士後研究人員學術著作獎), National Science Council of Taiwan. (2013)
- Outstanding Young Researcher Award of the 8th Asia-Pacific Conference on Combustion (2010)
Ph.D. in Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), Tainan, Taiwan 2008
M.S. in Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), Tainan, Taiwan 2002
B.S. in Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), Tainan, Taiwan 2000
Job Description
Engaged in experimental and computational research on electric propulsion and advanced combustion technologies.
Our research topics include, but are not limited to, the following areas:
- Electric propulsion systems, including pulse plasma thrusters, vacuum cathode arc thrusters, ion thrusters, and Hall effect thrusters.
- Advanced combustion technologies, with a focus on flame dynamics and pollutant formation.
- Diagnostic and measurement systems for plasma science and combustion applications.
- Alternative fuels, such as metal fuels, biofuels, hydrogen, and ammonia.
- Data-driven methods applied to combustion science and power systems.
Preferred Intern Education Level
- Undergraduate students majoring in Engineering or Applied Sciences
- Graduate students pursuing degrees in Engineering or Applied Science
Skill sets or Qualities
Applicants/students are expected to have:
- Basic skills and hands-on experience in optics, thermal-fluids experiments, or electronic circuits.
- Fundamental knowledge in heat transfer and combustion science (for research in combustion), or in plasma physics and electromagnetics (for research in electric propulsion systems).