Magnetic Field Influence on the Gas Detonation Induced by Spark Discharge

The present paper describes the influence of magnetic field on the spark discharge utilized for initialization of detonation. The method of schlieren time-based scanning shows the increase of shock wave velocity in the case when magnetic field was applied to the area of electrical discharge in the air. The critical energy values are obtained for a direct initialization of detonation in hydrogen–air and hexane–air mixtures. Magnetic field has a significant influence on the deflagration–combustion transition in both mixtures at the critical energy values. Pressure and velocity of the shock front were measured by ICP pressure transducers, flame front was recorded by photo-diodes. Two cases were studied experimentally: external magnetic field is produced by inductance coils connected to capacitor; own magnetic field is induced directly by discharge current in the cables positioned in special way.