Gas-dynamic processes influence on combustion evolution close to concentration flammability limits

The paper considers numerically the influence of gas-dynamic processes on combustion propagation within the enclosed volumes filled with low active gaseous fuel-air mixtures close to the concentration flammability limit. The authors identify some physical mechanisms determining both the flame propagation instability and the formation of modes with a cellular nature of flammable mixture combustion. Of special interest is a buoyancy of hot combustion products in the gravity field, as well as the convective instability being developed during this process. On the one hand, the convective instability provides both the stratification of unburnt mixtures and the formation of depletion regions, which prevent the mixture from being completely burnt out. On the other hand, it can result in forming hot thermals in the mixtures with undercritical composition. It is of primary concern for fire- and explosion safety.

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