Experimental Study of the Effect of CO/H₂ Ratio and Release Pressure on Syngas Jet Flame Propagation and Overpressure

Abstract

Syngas, composed of hydrogen and carbon monoxide, serves as an alternative fuel for hydrogen energy and a key raw material for chemical synthesis. However, due to its flammable nature, syngas poses risks of forming explosive mixtures in the event of a leak. This study explores potential accident scenarios in coal chemical environments involving syngas reaction vessels. Experimental investigations focus on the overpressure and propagation dynamics of jet flames resulting from syngas leakage, with CO volume fractions ranging from 50 to 80% and release pressures between 2 and 5 MPa. Results reveal that maximum flame overpressure occurs within a CO volume fraction range of 55−65%, with no consistent relationship observed between overpressure and CO fraction at fixed release pressures. During our experiments, the maximum recorded overpressure of 28.4 kPa was reached during vented explosions. Additionally, ignition outcomes categorize into three types based on flame propagation speed: combustion/flare, resembling normal deflagration; and high-velocity deflagration, characterized by rapid propagation and potential for steady jet fire formation. While shockwave-like features may be observed, these do not indicate true detonation. These findings offer insights for the safe handling and storage of syngas.