Self‐consistent modeling of the flow‐chemistry interplay in supersonically expanding CO2 mixtures; positive feedback of flow properties in supporting dissociation

Abstract

AbstractA self‐consistent model giving insights on the flow‐chemistry interplay in supersonic nozzles is presented. It is shown that the change of flow properties, caused by dissociation, enhances the cooling potential. This results in positive feedback boosting the dissociation. The focus of this study is on the second stage of a tandem‐construction, that is, the expanding afterglow. The first stage of activating the vibrational states can be done by combustion or a plasma treatment. The expansion in the second stage triggers the vibrational‐vibrational ladder‐climbing mechanism favorable for dissociation. It is seen that an additional dissociation can be obtained by adding Ar before the expansion. Two different model types are used: a self‐consistent full‐numerical model and a fast semi‐analytical approach of acceptable accuracy.