Reaction kinetics experiments

The experimental analysis of the chemical reactions is the basis for a fundamental understanding of the combustion of all fuels used in energy conversion and mobility. Of particular interest here are both novel and conventional gaseous and liquid fuels.

Activities focus on the chemically and kinetically controlled processes of technical combustion systems, such as ignition behaviour, heat release, flame velocities, pollutant formation and the associated reaction paths and networks. The department has a comprehensive repertoire of experiments at its disposal for the detailed investigation of these processes:

  • Shock wave tubes
  • Laminar high-pressure burner with conical flame
  • Flow reactors, atmospheric and high pressure with Molecular Beam Mass Spectrometry (MBMS) detection
  • Low-pressure flame with MBMS detection
  • Combustion research at Vacuum UV end stations at synchrotron facilities

For a better understanding of the reaction chemistry, the relevant sub-processes are usually analysed using well-controlled model systems. This involves simplifying the fuel composition (pure substances, simple mixtures as model fuels) and separating the physical processes in technical combustion systems, such as vaporization and mixing. 

Based on the experimental data, the numerical description of the chemical reactions can be summarised, tested and validated in reaction mechanisms in order to gain a basic understanding. These basic reaction models are ultimately applied to technical applications in the fields of energy, aviation, transport and space travel and are closely linked to activities in the fields of fuel analysis and emissions/immissions of pollutants.

Contact

Dr. Markus Köhler

Head of Department Chemical Kinetics and Analytics Department
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute of Combustion Technology
Pfaffenwaldring 38-40, 70569 Stuttgart