Experimental studies of shock-induced ignition and transition to detonation in ethylene and propane mixtures

Results are presented of ignition delay measurements, over the temperature range 1073-2211 K, obtained by monitoring CH emission from ethylene and pro pane mixtures. The relative influence of argon and nitrogen as diluents is also investigated. Comparisons with other experimental data are made and th e validity of chemical kinetic reaction mechanisms discussed. Spark schlier en photographs of the reflection and subsequent ignition processes are also presented, and the effects of varying the diluent and degree of dilution a way from ideal conditions investigated. In some cases, acceleration of the reaction wave has been observed, with transition to detonation occurring a short time later. (C) 1999 by The Combustion Institute.