Using an extended CFD-DEM for the two-dimensional simulation of shock-induced layered coal-dust combustion in a narrow channel

Abstract We used the computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method (CFD–DEM) model of compressible flow to numerically investigate the flame structure during shock-wave-induced layered coal-dust combustion, which poses a significant risk in coal mines. This represents the first attempt to apply a CFD–DEM model to compressible reactive gas–particle flow. The Eulerian–Lagrangian model for compressible gas–particle flow was extended to simulate shock–particle interactions in a reactive flow field. The particle interactions were predicted by the DEM, and source terms for homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions were included in the governing equations. The calculations were validated for inert particle dispersion from shock–particle interactions and flame propagation velocity in layered coal-dust combustion. The results were consistent with those from previous experiments. Furthermore, the flame structure in layered coal-dust combustion was revealed using the CFD–DEM approach. The simulation of the layered coal-dust combustion indicated that the shock wave was initially generated by gas detonation in a narrow channel with coal-dust particles at the bottom. The predicted propagation mechanism during layered coal-dust combustion was consistent with that reported in a previous numerical study based on the Eulerian–Eulerian approach (Hoium et al., 2015). Moreover, the flame comprised a leading shock wave and diffusion flame; the coal-dust particles were dispersed and heated by the shock wave and combustion products, respectively. The diffusion flame structure propagated at 350–500 m/s, resulting in devolatilization behind the reaction front. However, the CFD–DEM results indicated that the particle dispersion heights were higher than those predicted by the Eulerian–Eulerian approach (despite similarities in the inert particle dispersion results of these methods), attenuating the compression wave from the reaction front and slowing the leading shock wave.