706 Combustion Behavior of Paper Sheet in a Low External Flow under Microgravity : Discussion based on Temperature Measurement

Abstract

Flame spreading over thin paper in low external air flow has been performed in microgravity. Two ignition methods, kanthal wire heater and CO_2 laser, were examined. The flame spread rates were measured under various oxygen concentrations and external flow velocity. The result showed that external flow velocity had a strong effect on flame spread rates. Temperature distributions indicated that pyrolysis temperature increased and the preheating length decreased with increasing air flow velocity. There are no particular differences in surface temperature distribution between 2D and 3D flames.