Modeling and experimental analysis of n-dodecane oxidation in platinum-coated channels

In this work, a boundary layer fluid dynamics model is used to numerically investigate the heterogeneous/homogeneous combustion of n-dodecane in a platinum coated channel. An elementary lumped surface chemistry model is used to describe the oxidation of n-dodecane and its intermediates on Pt. A parallel plate microcombustor with Pt-coated walls was designed based on findings from the model. Experimental analysis of the n-dodecane/air fueled parallel plate microcombustor with Pt-coated walls shows that the combustor is capable of complete oxidation while operating at high temperatures (>1100 K) relevant to next generation thermal-to-electric power conversion. Chemiluminescence imaging in the combustor suggests that a weak flame exists, which is capable of driving oxidation to completion while avoiding extreme temperatures. This reactor shows promise as a heat source for high temperature compact thermal-to-electric power conversion.