The Construction of an Improved Automated Atomizer for Evaluating Jet Fuel Flammability

Abstract

The flammability characteristics of jet fuel aerosols are significant parameters for the development of fire safe fuels. In our laboratory's efforts to evaluate the success of specific chemical additives designed to reduce the ignition of jet fuel aerosols, we have developed a unique, completely automated atomizer for producing aerosols and measuring their mist flammability properties.

Finding a way through the “misty” evaluation of the flammability and explosivity of kerosene aerosols

“…One marked disaster involving aviation fuel was the September 11 th terrorist attacks in which, according to Maragkos and Bowen [12], the high-momentum impact and subsequent rupture of the fuel vessels were the reason behind the generation of the pressurized release of aviation fuel. Furthermore, Willauer et al [13] stressed the risks behind the high flammability and extreme explosivity of atomized jet fuel-air mixtures. The authors' study focused on finding chemical methods (test of a series of additives) for decreasing jet fuel flammability.…”