Analysis of reaction-diffusion waves in the ferroin-catalysed Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction

The Oregonator model is used to analyse reaction-diffusion waves in the fer roin-catalysed Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction. The value of the effective ra te constant of ferriin reduction k(J) is determined from experimental wave profiles of the oxidised catalyst obtained from solutions open to air, nitr ogen or sealed with a perspex lid. The value of k(J) is found to be lower i n systems affected by O-2. The dependence of the wave speed c on the concen tration of ferriin in the wave profiles is analysed. An alternative method for the determination of k(J) from a relationship between the period of tar get initiation T and [Fe(III)] is presented. The effect of these results on the 'universal dispersion relation' is also discussed.