The Combustion Phase of Burning Metals

Glassman's hypothesis and burn ratio are examined for their suitability for predicting the phase of combustion of metals. Neither criterion is validated based on either published property values or experimental evidence. Inconsistencies in published property values and definitions are noted. Computer calculations provide a more appropriate descriptions of the compositions of the combustion products and the adiabatic flame temperature of a burning metal at equilibrium. Dissociation temperatures (and product compositions) for 11 metals are computed using a specified quantity of thermal energy and compared with adiabatic flame temperatures.