Explosion Characteristics of Partially Cracked Ammonia Fuel

Ammonia is challenging to apply in existing industrial systems due to its low burning velocity and narrow flammability limits. However, it could serve as a viable replacement for hydrocarbon fuels by decomposing a portion of the ammonia into hydrogen and nitrogen. In this study, the explosion characteristics of partially cracked ammonia-air premixed flames were experimentally investigated in a cylindrical constant-volume chamber, with initial pressures and ammonia cracking ratios as variables. Ammonia cracking poses a significant risk of explosion due to the presence of hydrogen. By understanding the explosion characteristics of partially cracked ammonia fuels, it is possible to predict the severity of explosions and design safety equipment to mitigate these risks. As the ammonia cracking ratio increased, the burning velocity increased, resulting in a shortened explosion time and an increased maximum rate of pressure rise.