The Effect of Steam on Gas Combustion for Emission Reduction

Overview

Objectives/Goals My objective was to lower the amount of toxic pollutants released during combustion. Methods/Materials Undesirable emissions are generally formed at different temperatures in different zones of a diffusion flame during combustion. These emissions may be reduced if the flame structure can be modified to become more homogeneous. An apparatus was built which allowed a controllable amount of steam to mix with a controllable amount of propane during combustion, to homogenize the flame structure, and hence reduce the amount of emissions. Results Results showed that with the correct proportion of steam and gas mixture, the structure of the flame can be significantly modified from a long yellowish flame with separate blue zone to becoming a short and homogeneous pale blue flame with lower amounts of emissions. However, this pure flame exhibits instability and can transition to a flame out unless the amount of steam and gas are maintained to a precise ratio. Conclusions/Discussion Steam can reduce the amount of emissions during combustion, but the amount of steam and gas must be kept at a certain ratio to prevent a flame out.

Competition history

• CSEF 2003 Chemistry · Entry S0515

Resources

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