Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulations of Lean Premixed Methane-Air Flame in a Micro-Channel Reactor Using Different Chemical Kinetics

Abstract

Abstract Flame temperature and structure are a useful tool for describing flame dynamics and flame stability, especially at the micro-scale. The objective of this study is to examine the effect of different kinetic models (that have been proven to accurately predict the macro-combustion behavior of hydrocarbons) on the combustion characteristics and the flame stability in microreactors, and to explore the applicability of these kinetic models at the micro-scale. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of lean premixed methane-air flame in micro-channel reactors were carried out to examine the effect of different reaction mechanisms (Mantel, Duterque and Fernández-Tarrazo model) on the reaction rate and the flame structure and temperature. The time-scales with regard to homogeneous reaction and heat transfer were analyzed. The CFD results indicate that kinetic models strongly affect flame stability. Large transverse gradients in temperature and species are observed in all kinetic models, despite the small scales of the microreactor. Preheating, combustion, and post-combustion regions can be distinguished only in Duterque and Mantel model. Duterque model causes a stable elongated homogeneous flame with a considerable ignition delay as well as a dead region with cold feed accumulation near the entrance, and is inappropriate for micro-combustion studies because of the seriously overestimated flame temperature. Fernández-Tarrazo model causes a rapid extinction and a flashback risk, and is also inappropriate for micro-combustion studies due to the significantly underestimated reaction rate, without taking all kinetic factors into account. Mantel model can accurately predict the micro-flame behavior and consequently can be used for describing micro-combustion.