Low-Density Shock Tube for Chemical Kinetics Studies

Abstract

Some problems concerning the extension of high-temperature shock tube experiments to low gas densities are discussed. Specific examples are cited on the operation and actual performance of a 24-in. diam shock tube that has been constructed for chemical kinetics studies at gas densities in the neighborhood of 10−5 normal atmosphere (i.e., about 80 km simulated altitude). Some preliminary results on the dissociation and ionization rates, as well as the visible radiation profile, behind strong normal shocks in air (12 < Ms < 22) at these low densities are also presented.