Fundamental and Applied Studies in Combustion

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The objective of this research program is to advance our fundamental understanding of combustion in areas that have applied relevance to society and industry. The specific projects are:Project A - Emissions from Flares that Contain Non-Hydrocarbon Droplets in Crosswinds: Worldwide, the energy industry flares approximately 139 billion cubic meters of gas annually, and an increasing portion is believed to contain non-hydrocarbon liquids, such as "fracking fluids" used to enhance oil production. The emissions from such systems are essentially unknown. The principal research issue is to determine the fate of the chlorine-based fluids in emitting highly toxic chlorinated hydrocarbons when the flare is exposed to crosswinds. Project B - Role of the Creation/Destruction of Premixed Flame in Modeling Burning Rates for High Damkohler Number Flows: Our phenomenological understanding the interactions between unsteady flows and burning rates is not as well developed as for steady flames. Most practical flames for heating and power production are turbulent, so they are rife with unsteadiness. One form of unsteadiness is to create and destroy flame. The objective of this study is to ensure that these unsteady effects are properly accounted for in the burning rate of premixed flames.Project C - Effects of Poolside Boundary Conditions on Shallow Pool Fires: Liquid hydrocarbons as fuels, solvents and cooking oils are ubiquitous in society where they are stored, handled, and used. Due to their flammability and potential for causing damage, it is important to understand the combustion resulting from accidental ignition. Despite their profound effects, the role of poolside conditions in setting the rate of combustion is essentially unknown. This study addresses this shortcoming, as well as explores options for novel suppression techniques.