International Postgraduate Researchers Defend Their PhD Theses at the Institute of Energy

Pham Thanh Quyet: Development and Validation of a Low-Flow Counter-Rotating Turbine for a Hybrid Powertrain

Pham Thanh Quyet presented his thesis entitled “A Methodology for the Design and Validation of a Low-Flow Counter-Rotating Turbine for a Hybrid Powertrain.” His research supervisor was Viktor A. Rassokhin, Doctor of Technical Sciences and Professor.

The research focuses on the development of low-flow counter-rotating turbines for hybrid powertrains. These systems combine gas turbine and electric powertrains, enabling more flexible load distribution and improved overall energy system efficiency. The study integrates thermodynamic and gas dynamic calculations, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling, and experimental validation.

Pham Thanh Quyet has published 17 scientific papers on the subject of his thesis, including four articles in journals recommended by the Higher Attestation Commission of the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education. He has also obtained five certificates of state registration for computer programs. His research findings have been presented at Russian and international scientific and technical conferences.

The researcher describes his defence as the culmination of several years of work and the beginning of a new stage in his professional career:

Defending my thesis was a very important and emotional milestone for me. It marked the culmination of several years of study and research, so I felt both a strong sense of responsibility and great joy at the opportunity to present my findings to the members of the dissertation council.

Pham Thanh Quyet particularly valued the professional discussion of his research findings and the questions raised by the dissertation council concerning the turbine design methodology, numerical modelling, experimental validation, and the potential practical applications of his development.

After completing his studies, he plans to continue his research and teaching career, further develop research in turbomachinery, gas turbines, and hybrid powertrains, and share his experience with students and young professionals in Vietnam.

“I also hope to maintain and strengthen scientific ties with St. Petersburg Polytechnic University and my Russian colleagues,” Pham Thanh Quyet noted.

Luo Xinyao: Improving the Fuel Efficiency of a Dual-Fuel Diesel Engine and Reducing Carbon Emissions Through Ammonia Combustion

Luo Xinyao's thesis is entitled “Improving the Fuel Efficiency and Reducing Carbon Emissions of a Dual-Fuel Diesel Engine Using Ammonia as a Fuel.” His research supervisor was Yuri V. Galyshev, Doctor of Technical Sciences and Professor.

The study explores alternative fuels for internal combustion engines. It investigates the use of ammonia in a dual-fuel diesel cycle, in which an ammonia–air mixture is ignited by a pilot injection of diesel fuel. The objective is to improve engine fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions by using ammonia as a fuel.

Luo Xinyao developed chemical kinetic mechanisms for fuel mixture combustion, a three-dimensional mathematical model of the operating process of a dual-fuel engine, and a computational methodology for investigating how the ammonia fraction, combustion chamber geometry, and other design and operating parameters affect engine performance. The research focused on the YaMZ-534 engine operating on an ammonia–diesel fuel mixture.

The practical significance of the study lies in the potential application of the developed models and recommendations in the design and modification of dual-fuel engines. The research findings have been implemented at Marine Propulsion Systems LLC and NG-Energo LLC. Luo Xinyao has published nine scientific papers on the subject of his thesis, and his findings have also been presented at Russian and international scientific conferences.

The successful defences of international postgraduate researchers are an important part of the Institute of Energy's international research activities. Young researchers complete the full postgraduate training programme at SPbPU, present their findings to the scientific community, and continue collaborating with Russian colleagues after completing their studies.