Calculating the soot particle size distribution function in turbulent diffusion flames using a sectional method

Abstract

Soot formation in a turbulent jet diffusion flame is modeled using an unsteady flamelet approach in post-process. In the present work, we apply a detailed kinetic soot model with a sectional method, and study the evolution of the particle size distribution. Detailed information on the evolution of the soot particle size distribution function is acquired. It is found that the particle size distribution function is bimodal throughout the flame. The transition from the small to large particle size distributions is strongly influenced by surface growth and oxidation reactions. We find that large particles are most likely to be emitted from the flame.