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A kinetic modeling study of n-pentane oxidation in a well-stirred reactor

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6715539

Oxidation of n-pentane in a well-stirred reactor is examined, using a numerical model and a detailed chemical kinetic reaction mechanism, including 53 chemical species and 325 elementary reactions. Temperatures studied range from 1068 K to 1253 K, and the pressure is atmospheric. The major reaction paths consuming n-pentane are H-atom abstraction by OH radicals, followed by H-atom abstraction by H and O atoms and the unimolecular decomposition to produce ethyl and n-propyl radicals. Logically distinguishable H atoms in n-pentane are treated separately, and decomposition of the three different types of pentyl radicals via ..beta..-scission is found to dominate over isomerization through internal H atom transfer or reaction with molecular oxygen. Computed and measured results for chemical species concentrations show substantial agreement at temperatures below 1200 K. However, at higher temperatures, the computed oxidation of the n-pentane is substantially more rapid than measured. In the experiments, n-pentane oxidation does not become so rapid as to cause a clear breakdown in reactor homogeneity until the temperature exceeds 1260 K. Explanations for this difference are discussed. 36 refs., 2 figs., 1 tab.

Research Organization:
Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (USA); Washington Univ., Seattle (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
6715539
Report Number(s):
UCRL-96163; CONF-870484-1; ON: DE87006377
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English