Some theoretical fundamentals of catalytic fuel combustion

In the following paper, the special features of catalytic combustion, which are distinct from the developed theory of flame combustion are considered. They are connected with the properties and characteristics of catalysts, the developed surface for reaction and the comparatively low catalysts' temperatures. They determine the rate of catalytic reaction and the corresponding three main regions of catalytic plant operation: with diffusion, transient and kinetic combustion, that must be taken into consideration when the catalytic plant has a specific application. The article describes also the energy diagram of catalytic reaction and its comparison with the non-catalytic (flame) reaction of fuel oxidation and also shows the effect of poisoning on catalytic activity of substances. The temperature range of a different catalyst's work and its connection with excess air are discussed in the last part of article both for the plants with fluidised and fixed bed of catalyst.