Laser-induced Fluorescence Measurement of Combustion Chemistry Intermediates

Abstract

The method of laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) is a highly sensitive and selective way to measure trace species, often free radicals, which are intermediates in the chemistry of combustion. Examples of the molecules detected in flames by LIF are OH, CH, NH, NS and NCO. In this paper we describe the LIF method, using as examples several experiments from our laboratory. Included are experiments designed to develop a quantitative data base for LIF detection, performed in low pressure flow systems and in flames. Also described are measurements in flames where we seek to detect new chemical intermediates to provide insight into the combustion chemistry. © 1986 by Freund Publishing House Ltd.