Abstract - Wooldridge This is an investigation of particle formation and growth in gas-phase combustion synthesis as used for the production of various materials. The evolution of particle composition in combustion synthesis flames is characterized using laser spark spectroscopy. Parametric experimental studies detail the burner conditions that affect particle composition and morphology. The aerosol dynamic equation is used as the basis modeling particle growth and in refined as necessary to model single component and multicomponent particle synthesis. Laser scattering experiments provide data on particle size and number density for comparison with the models. Evaluation and control of particle composition in gas-phase combustion synthesis is important, particularly when several condensed-phase species are present in the flame. The nanocomposite particles created by these systems can exhibit a variety of morphologies and chemical compositions.
