Aerothermodynamics of UFP Synthesis

Publisher Summary Parameters controlling the synthesis of UFPs are basic thermodynamic factors. The pressure in the synthesis chamber and the surface temperature of molten metal control the particle size and the rate of synthesis. This implies that the phenomena inside the evaporation chamber can be described in terms of macroscopic thermodynamic quantities even though the chamber is evacuated. This is because the chamber pressure is typically l0 -2 atm and the mean free path is around 10 μm based on extrapolation from the atmospheric value of 10 -l μm. From both practical demands and academic interests of aerothermodynamics, there are two central problems to be solved. Which parameter controls and determines, the rate of UFP synthesis and the particle size of the UFPs. The first point is of interest in terms of mass-producing UFPs and the second is the most important factor related to the quality of the UFPs. The chapter considers the equations governing these factors. This system of equations describes the macroscopic behavior of UFPs. This system constitutes a new area in aerothermodynamics, and contains a potential approach to unresolved problems in combustion.