Subprojekt MM1: Investigation of the reaction process under engine conditions

In this project, by means of rapid, quasi-adiabatic compression of gas mixtures in a Rapid Compression Machine (RCM), the practical realization of the conversion rates predicted in the fundamentally-oriented subprojects for combined production of chemicals, of substances for energy storage and of work is investigated. The experimental device is similar to piston engines with respect to thermodynamical conditions during the compression phase (pressure- temperature level, unsteadiness of compression), but offers the possibility of studying the subsequent chemical reactions in detail and largely without disturbance by physical effects (piston motion, flow field) during the isochoric phase after the compression.

The results of this project help to more precisely assess the applicability of methods for polygeneration in engineering devices (piston engines). 

Initially, methane, possibly doped with additives for accelerating reaction, is initially considered as fuel, while syngas and also higher hydrocarbons (C2  and higher) are considered as reaction products.