Reactions of ethynyl radicals - Rate constants with CH4, C2H6, and C2D6

An experiment to measure ethynyl radical reactivity with other simple molecules is described. Flash photolysis of CF3C2H, a C2H precursor, was kinetically and spectroscopically analyzed for C2H reactions with CH4, C2H6, and C2D6 and rate constants for the abstraction reaction at room temperature were determined. The experimental apparatus is described, and the acetylene feedstock purification procedures are outlined. Rate constants are provided, and additional examination of the effects of added helium showed no alterations over the pressure range 20-700 torr.