Application of laser ignition on laminar flame front investigation

The first stages of laser-induced spark ignition were investigated as a function of time. Experiments were conducted using a premixed laminar CH₄/air burner. Laser-induced breakdown was achieved by focusing a 532-nm nanosecond pulse from a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. An anti-reflection coated lens with a focal length of 100 mm was used. The results obtained from an intensified high-speed and PIV CCD camera and a Cassegrain optics system coupled to an ICCD spectrometer provided information about the formation of laser-induced plasma and its transition to a flame kernel and a self-sustaining flame. The localization of the kernel and its time development were reproducible. Two types of flame fronts develop: one that expands against the flow direction, and one that moves with the flow. The initial flame expansion along the laser axis is asymmetric because of the shape of the plasma, different ionization levels inside the plasma, and the shock-wave expansion. Development of the fast flame occurs behind the shock wave induced by the plasma. This is important when laser ignition is used as a flame holder. An ICCD spectrometer coupled to an optical fiber permitted chemiluminescence visualization. The spectrum obtained during the plasma and flame kernel formation defined different stages in flame formation. The results obtained with these two optical techniques were synchronized to obtain the temporal resolution of the flame kernel evolution. Laser-induced ignition of a very lean mixture can be controlled to provide local heat release and extinction in a flame.