Detonation Studies of Gaseous Nitromethane Oxygen Mixtures

Abstract

Detonation characteristics of gaseous nitromethane-oxygen mixtures were investigated in a detonation tube. Experimental detonation velocities for total pressures in the 70-100 mm Hg range were found to be in good agreement with theoretical values calculated on the basis of the Chapman-Jouguet theory. The reaction time was determined by using a schlieren technique and was found to be between 4 and 7 μ sec, The only transient species detected, in the 2400-6000 Aring; range, by flash absorption studies was the OH radical. Its absorption occurs early in the reaction zone. Various reaction mechanisms are discussed for the purpose of explaining the source of OH radicals. The emission of OH was also determined as a function of time using a photomultiplier tube. The results are also discussed in terms of past flame, explosion and photochemical studies.