Review of Experimental Methods for Measuring the Ignition and Combustion Characteristics of Metal Nanoparticles

Investigations in recent decades have shown that the combustion mechanism of metal particles changes dramatically with diminishing size. Consequently, theoretical description of the ignition and combustion of metal nanoparticles requires additional research. At the same time, to substantiate theoretical models, it is necessary to obtain objective experimental information about characteristics of ignition and combustion processes, which is associated with solving serious technical problems. The presented review analyzes specific features of existing experimental methods implied for studying ignition and combustion of metal nanoparticles. This particularly concerns the methods for correct determination of nanoparticles size, correct description of their heat-exchange parameters, and determining the ignition delay and combustion times. It is stressed that the problem exists of adequate comparison of the data obtained with the use of different techniques of particles’ injection into a hot gas zone and the use of different methods of reaction time measurement. Additionally, available in the literature, data are obtained for particles of different material purity and different state of oxide layer. Obviously, it is necessary to characterize in detail all relevant parameters of a particle’s material and measurement techniques. It is also necessary to continue developing advanced approaches for obtaining narrow fractions of nanoparticles and for detailed recording of dynamic particles’ behavior in a hot gas environment.