Koutsakis Lab

Propulsion, Heat Transfer and Materials

About the research group

Space dominance depends on propulsion systems, and heat transfer often limits the overall efficiency of said devices. A number of applications rely on multilayer architectures to improve the inevitable trade-off between heat transfer and mechanical integrity. There remain significant heat transfer and solid mechanics problems related to the performance of multilayers that impact an array of devices, see Figure.

We aim to understand the coupled processes of heat transfer, fracture mechanics, and propulsion materials at gas-wall interfaces, with a particular focus on multilayered materials for heat transfer in extreme environments.

The team

See past students and lab alumni.

Research

Our ongoing research focuses on three principal areas: (1) Propulsion—covering rockets, gas turbines, and rotating detonation engines; (2) Heat Transfer—including conduction, convection, and radiation; and (3) Materials—with a focus on ceramics and metals.

For a complete list of publications, please refer to the PI’s Google Scholar page.

News

Location

The University of New Mexico (UNM) campus, nestled in Albuquerque NM, offers a blend of Southwestern charm and modern facilities, surrounded by the stunning Sandia Mountains. Known for its vibrant cultural heritage, the campus features adobe-style architecture and scenic landscapes, creating a unique and welcoming environment for students and visitors.

Our lab is conveniently located about 10 minutes from the Albuquerque International Sunport, making it easily accessible for visitors and students. This proximity provides seamless connectivity for travel and collaboration opportunities.