Analyzing flame behavior and particle interaction in iron powder combustion
Toos van Gool defended her PhD thesis at the Department of Mechanical Engineering on November 13th.
Global warming is one of the greatest challenges of our time, with carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels as the largest contributor. To ensure future generations can live happily on our planet, we need clean and sustainable energy sources. Recently, micron-sized iron powder has attracted growing interest as a recyclable, carbon-free fuel. In her PhD research, Toos van Gool investigates the combustion behavior of iron powder as a step towards clean, circular energy systems.
Iron might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of energy, but it has been used for decades in fireworks to create spark effects and vibrant colors. Additionally, the material possesses remarkable properties. When iron powder burns, it releases energy - just like fossil fuels - but without producing any carbon emissions. It is also safe to store, easy to transport, and best of all: it can be recycled. After combustion, the iron particles turn into iron oxide, which can be converted back into iron using renewable energy. This creates a circular, sustainable fuel cycle.
Studying iron flames
Extensive research is underway to explore how to make this technology practical. So far, most research have focused on the combustion of individual iron particles. However, in real-world burners, millions of particles burn simultaneously, and their interactions can significantly influence flame behavior. Toos van Gool takes a step closer to practical applications with her research by studying iron powder flames in one dimension, under conditions that mimic larger, practical flames.
Toward a cleaner energy future
In her research she examines how iron particles move and interact with the flow of air, and how this affects the flame鈥檚 behavior. The insights gained pave the way for efficient, reliable iron-fuel burners鈥攂ringing us one step closer to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future powered by one of Earth鈥檚 most abundant elements: iron.
Title of PhD thesis: . Supervisors: Prof. Philip de Goey, Prof. Jeroen van Oijen, and Dr. Thijs Hazenberg.