Application of Microwave Enhanced Plasma to Control the Ignition Delay of Diesel Spray Combustion

Abstract

The effect of microwave enhanced plasma (MW Plasma) on ignition delay of diesel spray combustion was investigated inside a constant volume high pressure chamber. A microwave-enhanced plasma system, in which plasma discharge generated by a spark plug was amplified using microwave pulses, was used to introduce plasma to the injected spray before the occurrence of auto-ignition. High speed imaging of natural luminosity indicated an earlier appearance of flame in the with-plasma cases compared to the respective without-plasma conventional operation. These results corresponds well to the behavior of the heat-release rates, suggesting a reduction-effect by MW plasma on the ignition delay of diesel combustion.