Authors: B. Gribi, Y. Z. Lin, X. Hui, C. Zhang, and C. J. Sung

Direct link to the paper: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fuel.2018.03.054

Abstract:

To curb the carbon footprint from the combustion of fossil fuels, hydrogen-enriched fuels have received much research attention in recent years. Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) has unique combustion characteristics, as it can be used as a fuel or serve as an oxidizer when reacting with other fuels. Considering the dual nature of H₂O₂ and exploring its potential benefits in clean combustion technology, a numerical study is carried out to systematically investigate the effects of H₂O₂addition on combustion properties of n-decane/air mixtures, including ignition delay times, laminar flame speeds, extinction residence times, and emissions of CO and NO_x. The results show that H₂O₂ addition can greatly enhance the premixed combustion with shortened ignition delay times, increased laminar flame speeds, and extended extinction limits. While CO emissions increase with increasing H₂O₂addition for stoichiometric and lean n-decane/air mixtures, NO_x emissions first increase with increasing H₂O₂ addition and then decrease as air is completely replaced by H₂O₂. Sensitivity and reaction pathway analyzes are further conducted to identify the changes in controlling chemistry as a result of H₂O₂ addition. It is found that the production of OH radicals are greatly enhanced by H₂O₂decomposition, and OH radicals play a dominant role in fuel oxidation process. The current simulation results suggest that reduced NO_x emissions can be achieved with H₂O₂ addition at leaner combustion conditions without compromising the static combustion stability.

Citation: B. Gribi, Y. Z. Lin, X. Hui, C. Zhang, and C. J. Sung, “Effects of Hydrogen Peroxide Addition on Combustion Characteristics of n-Decane/Air Mixtures,” Fuel 223, 324-333 (2018).