01Mechanisms of combustion and pollutant formation
Using controlled configurations such as laminar premixed, diffusion, and counterflow flames, we investigate the fundamentals of ignition, flame propagation, extinction, and pollutant formation. Particular attention is given to soot precursor formation, particle inception, growth, and oxidation, as well as NOx formation and reduction pathways. We examine the effects of fuel molecular structure, reaction atmosphere, temperature, pressure, and flow strain to support the development of chemical kinetic mechanisms and pollutant models.
02Industrial furnaces and efficient, clean heating
For ceramics, glass, and other high-temperature industrial processes, we study how fuel substitution affects flame distribution, radiative heat transfer, temperature uniformity, and furnace atmosphere. Through combustion staging, air distribution, and heat recovery, we explore heating strategies that balance product quality, energy efficiency, and emission control. We also address the suitability of ammonia–hydrogen fuels for industrial furnaces and the challenges of their large-scale use.
03Clean-fuel combustion in power systems
For internal combustion engines and other power devices, we investigate the combustion characteristics of hydrogen-enriched natural gas and other clean fuels. We examine how hydrogen fraction, mixture concentration, and ignition conditions affect ignition, burning rate, lean combustion limits, and cycle-to-cycle stability. Research considers how fuel properties and operating strategies jointly determine thermal efficiency and pollutant emissions. For hydrogen, ammonia–hydrogen mixtures, and other future fuels, we explore combustion and control methods suited to different operating conditions.
04Advanced combustion strategies and heat recirculation
Focusing on heat-recirculating super-adiabatic combustion, we investigate heat recovery and reactant preheating in Swiss-roll burners, porous media, and related structures. We examine how heat recirculation, chemical reactions, and heat losses affect flame stability and combustion limits. Studies of flame–wall interactions in confined microscale spaces support the development of compact, efficient combustors. Building on this work, we plan to explore catalytic combustion of ultra-dilute fuels and ammonia, addressing interactions between surface and gas-phase reactions, catalyst stability, and by-product control.
