From theory to safety: New model predicts how combustion scenarios unfold
Phys.org
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Researchers at Skoltech have developed a groundbreaking mathematical model that predicts how combustion waves propagate, from slow-burning flames to supersonic detonations. This study, published in *Physica D: Nonlinear Phenomena*, provides new insights into the transition from deflagration (slow burning) to detonation (rapid explosion), offering both analytical and numerical solutions for complex combustion processes. Understanding these transitions is crucial for improving engine safety, optimizing fuel combustion systems, and preventing industrial explosions.
The model focuses on steady propagating combustion waves, analyzing their behavior across different speeds and conditions. By simplifying the underlying equations through asymptotic analysis, the researchers identified key physical properties that drive combustion dynamics. Their approach revealed how small perturbations in pressure, velocity, or temperature can lead to significant changes in combustion behavior, ultimately determining whether a flame will remain steady or transition into a detonation.
This research is particularly important for industries reliant on combustion systems, such as aerospace and energy production. Accurately predicting combustion scenarios can help engineers design safer engines and prevent catastrophic failures. The model's ability to capture the full spectrum of combustion wave behaviors—from low-speed flames to high-intensity explosions—provides a powerful tool for both theoretical understanding and practical applications.
The findings also address a critical gap in combustion science: the transition from deflagration to detonation, which has long been challenging to predict. By identifying the conditions under which this transition occurs, the researchers have provided a framework for controlling and managing combustion processes more effectively. This knowledge could lead to advancements in fire safety, explosives research, and the development of more efficient and reliable energy systems.
In summary, the Skoltech team's work represents a significant step forward in understanding the physics of combustion. Their model not only enhances our theoretical knowledge but also offers practical solutions for improving safety and efficiency in industries where combustion plays a vital role. This research underscores the importance of bridging fundamental science with real-world applications to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in modern engineering.
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/26/2026