A Fractal Model of Turbulent Flame Kernel Growth

A model of turbulent flame kernel growth has been developed based on the fractal nature of premixed turbulent flame structure. The flame kernel model uses a recently developed heuristic model for the fractal dimension of premixed turbulent flame surfaces in order to predict the flame kernel's structure. The fractal flame kernel model requires independent knowledge of the turbulence intensity, Kolmogorov scale, integral scale and energy spectrum, as well as, the laminar flame speed. Comparisons with measurements from turbulent flow tunnels and engines show good agreement with the fractal model's predictions.