Uncertainty treatment applications: High-enthalpy flow ground testing

In this chapter, the operating principles of two major types of high-enthalpy facilities are reviewed. Both groups of facilities are complementary to reproduce high-speed flows and high thermal loads. The description focuses on the main elements and basic functioning of these wind tunnels, as well as the measurement techniques involved, including an analysis of experimental uncertainties. The physico-chemical models are then introduced and explained in detail giving an account of the complexities facing uncertainty quantification methods applied to this particular system. Computational tools to simulate flow conditions in inductively-coupled plasma facilities are described in detail providing mesh examples of the different fields involved. Finally, conclusions and remarks concerning uncertainty quantification challenges for atmospheric entry flows are discussed with special emphasis on the multi-physics and high-dimensionality aspects of the system. A recount on the state of the art on safety margins is given as well.