The
decomposition of silane (SiH4), as a model silicon-containing
trace compound in renewable natural gas (RNG), has been studied during
RNG combustion at ambient pressure conditions, using the opposed-jet,
flat-flame experimental configuration. Silane flame concentration
profiles were obtained, which indicate that complete SiH4 oxidation occurs in the preflame and luminous flame regions. The
laser-extinction technique was used to measure particle volume fractions
in the flame, and scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive
analysis by X-ray were used to study the morphology (size and shape)
and the elemental composition of the particles formed. It was shown
that pure solid silica (SiO2) particles are generated and
carried out with the gaseous combustion products into the postflame
region. The experimental data were modeled using two detailed SiH4 decomposition models, and the major SiO2 production
channels have been identified for both these models via sensitivity
and reaction path analyses. It was determined further that a first-order
global decomposition reaction rate can describe adequately the experimental
data.
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