A review of gas-liquid phase management techniques for low-temperature propellants on orbital refueling

The jet blending phenomenon in microgravity environment and the gas-liquid two-phase positioning separation technology seriously restrict the development of on-orbit refueling technology for low-temperature propellants. The research progress on jet stability and gushing spring phenomenon in microgravity environment at home and abroad is reviewed. The relevant theoretical knowledge system and experimental simulation results are introduced from the aspects of experimental observation and numerical simulation. The mechanism of jet blending and its influencing factors are explored. On the basis of gas-liquid mixing, the current gas-liquid two-phase positioning and separation technology suitable for low-temperature fluids is summarized. The research status of inertial, electromagnetic and surface tension as well as the advantages and limitations of each technology are analyzed. The surface tension method is the most reliable and potential gas-liquid two-phase positioning separation technology. The related research on gas-liquid phase management technology in the process of low-temperature propellant on-orbit refueling are sorted out, in order to provide support for the subsequent solution of gas-liquid mixing and separation problems.