Modeling ceramic sub-micron particle formation from the vapor using detailed chemical kinetics: comparison with in situ laser diagnostics.

Abstract

In this paper we review the in-situ measurements and modeling of an aerosol flame reactor producing submicron silica aerosols as a generic ceramic. Silica powders are produced in a hydrogen-oxygen counter flow diffusion flame reactor and interrogated with light scattering methods for determination of the time-temperature history of particle growth. In addition laser-induced fluorescence and multi-photon ionization have been shown to be applicable as diagnostics in a heavily particle laden flow. These diagnostics have been used to measure the OH radical and silicon atoms. These experimental results have been used in conjunction with detailed chemical kinetics and aerosol dynamic models for particle growth. The results show the effects of multi-component nucleation can alter the chemical purity of the resulting solid.