Introduction

Combustion phenomena arise from the interaction of chemical and physical processes. The use of combustion fuels remains especially attractive where convenient ‘energy storage’ is required, as in transport applications, for example. The most comprehensive coverage from conferences is to be found in the proceedings of the biennial ‘International Combustion Symposia of The Combustion Institute’. Combustion begins in chemistry with a self-supported, exothermic reaction. The simplest circumstances for combustion to take place are when the two gaseous, premixed components, are introduced to a container maintained at a uniformly controlled temperature. In a propagating combustion wave, called a deflagration or flame, reaction is initiated by a spark or other energy stimulus. Combustion processes are also involved in heating applications, ranging from domestic gas, oil or solid-fuel central heating units to large industrial furnaces. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.