Thermal decomposition of C{sub 10}-C{sub 14} normal alkanes in near-critical and supercritical regions: Product distributions and reaction mechanisms

Journal Article · Sat Mar 01 04:00:00 UTC 1997 · Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/ie960392b· OSTI ID:458445

Yu, J; Eser, S ^[1]

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1. Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park, PA (United States)

Thermal decomposition of C{sub 10}-C{sub 14} n-alkanes was studied under near-critical and supercritical conditions. The primary products were C{sub 1}-C{sub m{minus}2} n-alkanes and C{sub 2}-C{sub m{minus}1} 1-alkenes, and the secondary products were cis- and trans-2-alkenes, n-C{sub m{minus}1}, n-C{sub m+1}, and C{sub m+2}-C{sub 2m{minus}2} normal and branched alkanes, where m is the number of carbon atoms in the reactant. The relative yields of the primary and secondary products were dependent upon the reaction conditions. Product distributions exhibited large pressure dependence in the near-critical region. The observed product distributions and changes in product composition with reaction conditions were explained by a modified free radical mechanism. This investigation was undertaken in relation to future jet fuel thermal stability problems. The fuel in an advanced aircraft is the primary sink for the heat generated on board. Under thermal stress, the fuel may attain high temperatures and undergo thermal decomposition, resulting in the formation of solid deposits.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Pittsburgh Energy Technology Center, PA (United States)
• DOE Contract Number: FG22-92PC92104
• OSTI ID: 458445
• Journal Information: Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research, Journal Name: Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 36; ISSN 0888-5885; ISSN IECRED
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
AIRCRAFT
ALKANES
ALKENES
CHEMICAL REACTION YIELD
COOLANTS
JET ENGINE FUELS
MOLECULAR WEIGHT
THERMAL DEGRADATION
THERMAL STRESSES