Using an opposed flow diffusion flame to study the oxidation of C4 fatty acid methyl esters.

摘要

The oxidation of saturated (i.e methyl butanoate) and unsaturated (i.e. methyl crotonate) C4 fatty acid methyl esters in an opposed flow diffusion flame has been studied to better understand the role of molecular structure in biodiesel combustion. The results indicate that the methyl crotonate flame produces higher levels of unsaturated hydrocarbons, which are known soot precursors in combustion applications. In addition, higher levels of acrolein, acetone, methanol, and benzene are observed in the methyl crotonate flame. The double bond in methyl crotonate is identified as the reason for the observed differences in species formation.; The experiments are also used to validate an improved detailed chemical kinetic model for methyl butanoate. The model exhibits good agreement with the experimental data. The major reaction pathways for methyl butanoate oxidation in the opposed flow diffusion flame are presented herein.