Control of the Rate of Methane Oxidation by Quasi-Equilibrium Radical Concentrations

摘要

When calculated reaction trajectories are plotted as temperature versus radical concentration all trajectories, after an initial transient, follow a common curve. This curve is shown to be a quasi-equilibrium between chain branching reactions and radical destruction reactions, and is a stable solution of the chemical kinetic rate equations. Because fuel is consumed by reactions with radicals, this quasi-equilibrium radical concentration determines the rate of fuel consumption. The nature of the quasi-equilibrium solution is shown using both detailed chemical kinetics and a simplified chemical model based on a radical pool. Simple expressions for the quasi-equilibrium radical concentration in methane oxidation are given. 5 figures. (ERA citation 05:000333)