Large eddy simulation of autoignition with a subgrid probability density function method

This paper applies the Eulerian stochastic field method to the solution of the subgrid joint probability density function (PDF) of the reacting scalars in a large eddy simulation (LES) of a jet of hydrogen issuing into a co-flow of vitiated air. The hot co-flow induces autoignition of the mixture and a lifted flame results downstream of the nozzle exit. The simulations were performed using a detailed H2–air mechanism. The results were found to be sensitive to the co-flow temperature even with temperatures varied within the experimental uncertainty. The results obtained were in excellent agreement with the experimental data, both quantitatively and qualitatively. The method was able to capture partially premixed and partially extinguish zones with a relatively small number of stochastic fields. The radical HO2 was found to be the trigger for autoignition. The fact that no large-scale premixed flame propagation was observed suggests that the stabilization mechanism is associated mainly with the chemistry.