Flame propagation behavior of aluminum nanopowder in bulk layer

The flame propagation parameters of aluminum nanopowder in the bulk layer were investigated. The aluminum nanopowder produced by the method of the electrical explosion of wires used in this study. The aluminum bulk layer was ignited by open flame, heated body, or electric spark. The flame propagation behavior is described as a two-stage process: 1) flame propagation over the surface layer and deep into the sample; 2) the thermal explosion mode. It was found that the type of ignition source influences the parameters of the first stage of the combustion. The minimum ignition energy for the aluminum nanopowder bulk layer was measured. The effect of the bulk layer inclination angle on flame propagation parameters was determined. The obtained results can be useful in assessing the fire hazard and organizing safe processes of industrial production during the use, storage, handling, and transportation of metal nanopowders.