Characterization of spark- and laser-ignition of bio- and natural gas

Nathan D. Peters, Ben Akih-Kumgeh

Research output: Chapter in Book/Entry/PoemConference contribution

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

This paper presents a comparative investigation of the early phase of combustion initiated by a focused pulsed laser beam and a conventional spark-discharge. The comparative approach is applied to the characterization of combustible mixtures of natural gas and biogas with varying CO2 content. Interferometry and Schlieren imaging are used to probe flame kernel formation and its subsequent transition to a self-sustained flame. The pressure rise in the chamber is also recorded by means of a fast-response piezo-electric pressure transducer. From these diagnostics, differences between the early phases of laser-induced and sparkignition are revealed. Unlike in laser-induced ignition, sparkignition features a delay in the transition from the early flame kernel to a self-sustained flame (attributed to heat loss), which leads to failed ignition for mixtures with high CO2 content. The role of CO2 as an ignition retardant is observed by comparing fuel/air mixtures with and without CO2.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationCoal, Biomass and Alternative Fuels; Cycle Innovations; Electric Power; Industrial and Cogeneration Applications; Organic Rankine Cycle Power Systems
PublisherAmerican Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
ISBN (Electronic)9780791850831
DOIs
StatePublished - 2017
EventASME Turbo Expo 2017: Turbomachinery Technical Conference and Exposition, GT 2017 - Charlotte, United States
Duration: Jun 26 2017Jun 30 2017

Publication series

NameProceedings of the ASME Turbo Expo
Volume3

Other

OtherASME Turbo Expo 2017: Turbomachinery Technical Conference and Exposition, GT 2017
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityCharlotte
Period6/26/176/30/17

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Engineering

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Characterization of spark- and laser-ignition of bio- and natural gas'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this