Laser Induced Fluorescence Spectroscopy as Combustion Diagnostic

Abstract

Laser-induced fluorescence can be used to detect with high sensitivity small molecular species, typically free radicals, which are the intermediates in the chemistry of combustion processes, the atmosphere, and plasmas. Using as examples recent work from our laboratory, we describe the laser spectroscopy and spectroscopically based collision studies needed for application of the laser-induced fluorescence techniques, with an emphasis on combustion diagnostics.