Prediction Model of Explosion Limit of Multi-Component Gas Mixture Based on Heat Balance

To address the limitation of existing prediction models in reflecting the impact of varying gas reactivities on explosion limits of multi-component mixtures, a modified prediction model based on the heat balance principle is proposed. This model differentiates the adiabatic flame temperatures of various combustible gases and introduces heating, quenching, and cooling factors to account for the effects of combustible and inert components on explosion limits. Comparisons with experimental data and the Le Chatelier model demonstrate superior predictive accuracy across various gas mixture systems. Validation using the CHEMSAFE database shows that the Le Chatelier model has an average error of 18.89%, while the proposed model has an error of only 11.46%. For H2/CH4 mixtures, the modified model agrees better with experimental data. Incomplete combustion near the explosion limits, particularly for high-carbon hydrocarbons, must be considered when determining the molar oxygen requirement. Sensitivity analysis indicates that the adiabatic flame temperature, cooling factor of inert gases, and molar oxygen requirement significantly affect explosion limits. The model is applicable for explosion limit assessment in complex multi-component systems, providing a theoretical tool for industrial safety design and risk assessment.