Effects of Magnetic Fields on Combustion and Explosion

Magnetic fields affects chemical reactions through acting on irons, electriferous groups and magnetic particles. Gas combustion and explosion are a chain reaction process of free radicals, which are paramagnetic species. Magnetic fields can affect gas combustion and explosion by acting on the key species, free radicals, of chain reaction. Magnetic fields has great potential in the field of energy and combustion. The effects of magnetic fields on combustion and explosion are reviewed from three aspects: flame characteristics, engine performance and emission, and explosion intensity. Theory, in a general sense, and theoretical methods development have a role. The theory of magnetic fields acting on free radicals is summarized. Free radicals are affected by gradient magnetic force, magnetic force, gravity and buoyancy. Free radicals are subjected to gradient magnetic force, magnetophoresis force, gravity and buoyancy in the magnetic fields. We discuss in this review all these topics in some detail with an emphasis on issues and methods. Even so, our review is selective, rather than comprehensive, out of necessity.