Effect of laser radiation and electric field on combustion of hydrocarbon-air mixtures

Publications on combustion of hydrocarbon-air mixtures under the action of a weak electric field and laser radiation are analyzed. A specific feature of the authors’ experimental study is a pulsed-periodic action of an electric field and focused laser radiation, which does not lead to electric discharge or optical breakdown. Numerous experiments reveal a noticeable effect of weak electric fields on combustion processes. Application of an electric field may result in expansion of the limits of flammability and combustion of fuel-air mixtures, changes (decrease or increase) in the burning rate, shifting of flame stabilization toward lean mixtures, reduction of the concentration of hazardous substances (for instance, NO$_x$ and CO) in combustion products, etc.