Simplified Descriptions of Cool-Flame Chemistry

Correct detailed chemical-kinetic descriptions of the consequences of the additions of oxygen molecules to alkyl radicals involve large numbers of elementary steps. The resulting complexity of the system of equations needed to describe combustion processes often taxes computational capabilities. Simplified descriptions of the chemical kinetics that retain essential elements of the results therefore can be useful for a number of purposes, even though they fail to include many of the chemical processes. Such simplified descriptions for combustion processes are presented here for certain normal alkanes. Their potential utility and prospects for future developments are discussed.