Development of an Optimized Combustion Chamber for Non-Invasive Spectral Analysis of Biomass Flame Temperature and Alkali Content

Martinez L.V.; Alcantara A.C.; Olivares R.L.M.; Marcelo-Aldana D.; Sullon A.H.; Paulini J.U.; Orbegozo E.M. · TEMSCON LATAM 2025 - Technology and Engineering Management Society Conference (2025) · DOI: 10.1109/temsconlatam65810.2025.11239015

Resumen

This study presents the design, numerical modelling, and experimental validation of a combustion chamber optimised for spectrometric analysis of flame temperature and alkali emissions during biomass combustion. Building upon prior designs, the proposed chamber addresses critical limitations in flame stability, light interference, and discontinuous biomass feeding through innovative modular components: a gravity-sealed spectrometer port system, adjustable air intake dampers, and an enhanced ash removal mechanism. Numerical simulations in SolidWorks confirmed the effectiveness of fluid dynamics, demonstrating a uniform, stagnant airflow at operating speeds of 1 m s. This speed was measured by sensors installed in the area where the project tests will be carried out near the UDEP meteorological station. Experimental validation utilised a trifurcated optical fibre spectrometer system to capture spectral data across ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared ranges. Key results identified optimal wavelength differentials for the two-colour temperature estimation method, yielding 1900 K for propane and 1750 K for sugarcane bagasse combustion. Alkali emission peaks at 5 9 0 ~ n m (sodium) and 770 nm (potassium) were quantified, correlating with fuel composition and combustion heterogeneity. This work establishes a robust framework for non-invasive combustion diagnostics, with direct applications in optimising biomass energy systems. The chamber's modularity and thermal expansion tolerances ensure adaptability for diverse fuel testing, advancing efforts to mitigate pollutant emissions while enhancing renewable energy utilisation.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de Trujillo; Universidad de Piura