Fuel Ignition in a Rapid Compression Machine: Sensitivity to Flame Ignition by Particles

Fuel ignition in a rapid compression machine is a spatially uniform process in the absence of solid particles. Recent work with the opposed-piston rapid compression machine has shown that particle ignition of a flame can override the gas phase ignition process unless elaborate precautions are taken to reduce particle contamination. Contrary to earlier interpretations, these results imply that temperature gradients generated during compression are not a major factor in the formation of nonuniform ignitions.