ABSTRACT
To research the influence of inert gases on the explosion behaviors of LPG/air mixtures, LPG explosion tests suppressed by CO2 and N2 were conducted in a spherical chamber and the chemical reaction kinetic properties were analyzed. The results show that CO2 has a better inhibitory effect than N2, especially when the added amount is small. With the increasing volume fraction of inert gases, the LPG explosion flame propagation speed continuously decreases, and the phenomenon of flame uplift and wrinkling deformation occurs. The explosion pressure of LPG/CO2(N2)/air mixture and the average flame propagation speed in the initial stage follow an exponential function with an offset. The laminar flame structure of 4% LPG is similar to its mixtures with N2 and CO2. After adding inert gases, the maximum temperature of the LPG laminar flame decreases significantly, and the flame thickness increases. The key elementary reactions affecting the N2(CO2)/LPG/air explosions are given. The research results have important implications for suppression of LPG explosions.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Additional information
Funding
Notes on contributors
Song Lin
Song Lin earned his Doctoral Degree in Safety Science and Engineering of China University of Mining and Technology in 2022. At present, he is a Lecturer in Changzhou University. His research interests include gas/dust explosion prevention and reaction mechanism.
Zhentang Liu
Zhentang Liu is a Professor in China University of Mining and Technology. His research focuses on mine ventilation, explosion accident prevention.
Xiaomeng Chu
Xiaomeng Chu earned her Master Degree in Safety Engineering of China University of Mining and Technology in 2023. Her research focuses on gas explosion and prevention.
Yan Tang
Yan Tang earned his Doctoral Degree in Safety Science and Engineering of China University of Mining and Technology in 2019. At present, he is a Lecturer in Changzhou University. His research focuses on fire and chemical safety.
Dong Chen
Dong Chen is an Associate Professor in China University of Mining and Technology. His research interests include impact dynamics, microseismic monitoring and early warning.