The effect of depletion of radicals on freely propagating hydrocarbon flames

Abstract

In this work we investigate the properties and stability of deflagration waves in the model which include the two-step chain-branching reaction mechanism, first order reaction of conversion of radicals into products, and Newtonian cooling to the surroundings. The propagation velocity, the maximum temperature and concentration of radicals monotonically decay as the rate of the radical termination reaction is increased. The critical parameter values for the onset of instabilities and quenching of the travelling combustion wave are found. It is demonstrated that the depletion of radicals through the additional termination reaction enhances the onset of instabilities and extinction. The comparison of the efficiency of the radical and thermal quenching mechanisms is performed. The solutions emerging once the travelling deflagration wave becomes unstable are studied.