Effect of laser radiation and electric field on combustion of hydrocarbon-air mixtures

Publications on combustion of hydrocarbon-air mixtures under the action of a weak electric field and laser radiation are analyzed. A specific feature of the authors’ experimental study is a pulsed-periodic action of an electric field and focused laser radiation, which does not lead to electric discharge or optical breakdown. Numerous experiments reveal a noticeable effect of weak electric fields on combustion processes. Application of an electric field may result in expansion of the limits of flammability and combustion of fuel-air mixtures, changes (decrease or increase) in the burning rate, shifting of flame stabilization toward lean mixtures, reduction of the concentration of hazardous substances (for instance, NOx and CO) in combustion products, etc.