This project will provide instrumentation to support research on the vaporization of thin films composed of non-ideal mixtures of fuels typically utilized in internal combustion engines. A research-grade Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, a high speed digital camera, a stabilized helium-neon laser, and a pressure chamber will be used to measure the composition and mass of vaporizing multicomponent fuel films as a function of time. The experimental research will provide key kinetic information about fuel film combustion, which is necessary for successful modeling of combustion processes. Furthermore, as fuel films form in internal combustion engines, they affect fuel-air mixing: pollutant emissions can be drastically altered. The research will lead to a better understanding of how fuel films contribute to pollutant emissions from engines by: 1) improving the understanding of the roles of thermal and mass transport processes within the films, and 2) providing a thorough characterization of the changing film composition during vaporization. The broader educational aspects of the work will include the education of undergraduate and graduate students in design and analysis in a multidisciplinary research program. This will further strengthen a strong tradition of undergraduate research at Trinity University and will foster closer relations between engineering sciences and chemistry.
