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Fundamentals and Applications of Combustion
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:30:28
Abstract
This course will provide an introduction to the fundamentals and the applications of combustion in energy conversion and nanoparticles synthesis. The content is highly relevant for technologies which cannot be electrified such as long distance aviation and shipping, and which will more and more rely on carbon-neutral synthetic fuels.
Objective
The main learning objectives of this course are: 1. Understand the thermodynamic, fluid-dynamic and chemical kinetics fundamentals of combustion processes. 2. Predict relevant parameters for combustion systems, such as laminar and turbulent flame speeds, adiabatic flame temperature or quenching distance. 3. Understand the causal relations of relevant combustion parameters such as the pressure influence on the laminar flame speed. 4. Analyze the challenges of developing sustainable combustion technologies based on carbon-neutral synthetic fuels.
Content
Reaction kinetics, fuel oxidation mechanisms, premixed and diffusion laminar flames, two-phase-flows, turbulence and turbulent combustion, pollutant formation, development of sustainable combustion technologies for power generation, shipping and aviation. Synthesis of materials in flame processes: particles, pigments and nanoparticles. Fundamentals of design and optimization of flame reactors, effect of reactant mixing on product characteristics.
Resources
Lecture Notes
No script available. Instead, material will be provided in lecture slides and the following text book (which can be downloaded for free) will be followed:J. Warnatz, U. Maas, R.W. Dibble, "Combustion:Physical and Chemical Fundamentals, Modeling and Simulation, Experiments, Pollutant Formation", Springer-Verlag, 1997.Teaching language, assignments and lecture slides in English
Literature
J. Warnatz, U. Maas, R.W. Dibble, "Combustion:Physical and Chemical Fundamentals, Modeling and Simulation, Experiments, Pollutant Formation", Springer-Verlag, 1997. I. Glassman, Combustion, 3rd edition, Academic Press, 1996.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 120 minutes
- Aids
- 2 pages A4 (1 sheet double-sided) with notes written by her/his own hand (no prints). Non-programmable and communication-disabled calculators.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Fundamentals and Applications of Combustion |
|
2 h weekly |
| exercise |
Fundamentals and Applications of Combustion
The exercise starts in the second week.
|
|
1 h weekly |
| independent project |
Fundamentals and Applications of Combustion
Does not take place this semester.
|
|
30 h semesterly |
Offered In
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Sustainable Energy and Processes (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Mark Tibbitt In order to achieve the required 20 credit points for the Focus Specialization Sustainable Energy and Processes you need to pass at least 2 core courses (W+) and at least 2 of the elective courses, according to the presentation of the Focus Specialization. An additional course, if needed, can be selected among the courses offered by D-MAVT (151-…).)
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Core Courses (At least two core courses must be passed in each area. All students must participate in the course offered in the area "Interdisciplinary Energy Management")
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Doctorate Materials Science (Further information at: )
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Deep Track Courses (At least 20 credits must be completed within the deep track courses. Surplus credit points can be counted towards the electives.)
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Deep Track Aerospace Engineering (These courses can be credited either as a specialization subject or as an elective subject.)
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