Flame propagation of hydrogen combustion

Abstract

In recent years the urge to make future fuels market ready and understand their potentials and risks has become considerably higher. Hydrogen as one of a limited number of zero emission fuels is getting more interesting in terms of supporting the energy transition.

This Master Thesis helps to understand hydrogen’s combustion behaviour and flame propagation and if hydrogen has a future in the transportation industry. The thesis is conducted beginning with a literature study of previous laminar flame speed measurements, continues with 1D flame simulations in Cantera and finishes with optical flame speed measurements (Z-Schlieren) in a constant volume chamber. The flame propagation, the flame speed and its influencing factors, temperature, pressure and dilution, have been examined.

The results obtained by the simulations and experimental work have been validated, analysed and compared to literature. It could be displayed that the simulations and experiments vary since turbulences and uncertainties are affecting the accuracy of the system. In conclusion it shows that hydrogen has a high potential as future fuel but it is also to mention that future studies are required to give a fully educated statement.