The effect of a porous media on methane combustion in a domestic gas stove

IEFC 2026
Cristi Emanuel Iolu, Speaker at Energy Congress
National University of Science and Technology Politehnica, Romania
Title : The effect of a porous media on methane combustion in a domestic gas stove

Abstract:

Methane remains a relevant fuel within the context of the energy transition due to its lower specific emissions compared to other hydrocarbons. However, further improvements in combustion efficiency and pollutant reduction are essential for the development of cleaner hydrocarbon technologies. This paper investigates the influence of a porous media on methane combustion in a domestic gas stove through a combined experimental and numerical approach. The experimental study focuses on stability flame, temperature distribution and combustion behavior in the presence of a porous structure integrated in the burner. Complementary numerical simulations are performed to analyze heat transfer mechanisms and flow characteristics. To complement the experimental study, a numerical model was developed to simulate methane combustion within the porous media. The model incorporates fluid flow, heat transfer and chemical reaction mechanism to capture the complex interactions between the gas phase and the solid matrix. Numerical simulations were used to analyze temperature fields, velocity distributions and reaction zones offering detailed insight into the physical processes governing porous media combustion. The numerical results were validated against experimental observations, demonstrating good agreement in terms of flame stabilization behavior and temperature trends. The combined experimental and numerical findings indicate that the presence of a porous media leading to improved flame stability and more uniform temperature distributions. Furthermore, the enhanced heat recirculation associated with the porous structure suggests a potential reduction in incomplete combustion and pollutant formation. These characteristics contribute to increased combustion efficiency and support the use of porous media as a viable solution for cleaner methane utilization. Overall, the study highlights the potential of porous media combustion in domestic gas burner as an effective pathway toward cleaner and more efficient hydrocarbon-based energy systems, bridging experimental observations with numerical analysis to support future design and optimization efforts.

Biography:

My name is Cristi-Emanuel Iolu. I was born on January 15, 1998 in Dobra, Dambovita, Romania. I come from a family with 5 children. I have been married for 3 and a half years.In 2020, I graduated from the Faculty of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering with a specialization in Thermal Systems and Equipment. In 2022 I graduated from the master's program - Thermal Systems and Equipment Engineering and Management - at the same faculty.Since 2022 I have been a PhD student, the title of my thesis being: "Atmospheric burner prepared for mixed gas combustion (methane+hydrogen)" 
 

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