Calibrated low-temperature plasma source for diagnostic research

A Mekker-type burner has been used as a combustion-product plasma source. Measurements have been made on the temperature distribution and the concentrations of sodium, lithium, and hydrogen atoms across and along a flame. Flames having low fuel and oxygen flow rates do not show radical equilibration. The tests showed that incorrect design or incorrect operation in Mekker-type burners can give rise to concentration and temperature inhomogeneities; if the temperature falls rapidly up the flame, the radical concentrations do not have time to relax to the equilibrium values, particularly in the case of hydrogen.