Combustion benchmark of six metals: Regimes, dynamics, and radiative energy release in air

Metal combustion is emerging as a promising field, with applications ranging from high-energy fuels and clean energy carriers to nanoparticle oxide synthesis. While iron and aluminum combustion has been extensively studied, fundamental research on other metals remains limited. This study investigates aluminum, iron, titanium, manganese, zirconium, and niobium — metals selected for their abundance (on Earth and the Moon), industrial relevance, and comparable high energy densities. Using an electrodynamic levitator, photomultipliers, and high-speed imaging, we analyze the combustion of individual micrometric particles in atmospheric air, identifying their combustion regimes, dynamics, and radiative energy release. This work establishes the first comparative benchmark for these metals, including some never before studied in combustion, advancing both fundamental knowledge and potential applications. Novelty and significance statement: Metal combustion is gaining attention due to its dual role in space propulsion – where metals are high-energy-density additives – and in clean energy systems, where their recyclability offers a sustainable advantage. Yet, despite the diversity of metallic and metalloid elements, their combustion properties remain poorly characterized, limiting potential applications. This study establishes a comprehensive benchmark for widely used metals (Al, Fe) as references, and understudied metals (Mn, Ti, Zr, Nb), paving the way for their future adoption and deeper scientific exploration. Unprecedented visualizations are provided along with a characterization of burning regimes, combustion dynamics and radiative energy release. By filling this critical knowledge gap, our work accelerates progress in high-performance propulsion and sustainable energy solutions.