Quantitative analysis of flame luminance and explosion pressure in liquefied petroleum gas explosion and inerting: Grey relation analysis and kinetic mechanisms

To evaluate the explosion intensity by flame luminance, a series of explosive and inerting tests on LPG in a 20-L spherical chamber were taken. A quantitative assessment of flame luminance was performed using the grey level theory, and the association between explosion pressure parameters and flame luminance parameters was examined through grey relation analysis. Furthermore, the intrinsic relationship and mechanism between these two variables were explored based on heat-chain reaction kinetics and energy conversion. The findings revealed a synchronous trend between flame luminance and explosion pressure during the LPG explosion process. Notably, a significant positive correlation between explosion pressure and flame luminance was established. Flame luminance emerged as a valuable indicator of explosion intensity, akin to explosion pressure. The grey relational grade between flame luminance and explosion pressure remained remarkably consistent under varying volume fractions of both LPG and CO2. The addition of CO2 exerted a comprehensive influence on factors such as reaction rate, heat release rate, and the concentration of key radicals. This collective impact resulted in reduced explosion pressure and flame luminance. This study offers a theoretical foundation for assessing explosion risks and enhancing energy safety management within the domains of chemical, petroleum, and natural gas industries.