Radical chain reactions could solve soot formation mystery
New theory suggests how solid particles of soot – or interstellar dust – form as volatile gaseous precursors burn
Researchers have found a mechanism that could explain how soot forms and grows as a result of incomplete combustion of hydrocarbon fuels. The finding may also explain how interstellar dust forms under similar conditions, and could could lead to more efficient ways of reducing harmful pollutant emissions as well as better ways to make useful carbon-based materials.