LIF DETECTION OF METHOXY IN CH4/O2/NO2N2 FLAMES

CH3O is detected by laser-induced fluorescence in premixed methane/oxygen flames containing 10%-40% NO2, Spectral features between 290-300 nm can be assigned to the A-X 3(0)3 and 3(3)4 bands in excellent agreement with spectral simulations and previous experiments. Individual rotational lines are only partially resolved in the flame; spectra at reduced temperatures are needed to assign spectral features and facilitate temperature corrections to LIF profiles. No methoxy signal is observed without NO2 present; the reaction of CH3 with NO2 is though to produce CH3O in the CH4/NO2 system. Detection strategies and possible interferences in combustion environments are discussed.