Theoretical Fitting of Computer Processed Laser Raman Spectra from Methane- and Propane-Air Flames

Abstract

A technique for rapid acquisition and computer processing of Raman signals is described for probing premixed laminar hydrocarbon-air flames using laser Raman spectroscopy. Temperatures can be determined to within ±50°K by fitting the observed N2 spectrum at any point in the flame. Fits to the spectra of O2, CO, H2, and CO2 are used to measure their mole fractions at the calculated N2 temperature. For the remaining polyatomic species, the total area under the peak is the primary measure of their concentration.