Models of SHS: An overview
Résumé
The theoretical models of SHS based on lamellar or cellular approximations of the heterogeneous reactive media are comparatively analyzed. It is shown that the ratio of the reaction time to the characteristic time of heat transfer between particles is a decisive parameter for the combustion wave propagation. When the time of reaction is shorter than the time of heat exchange, the combustion occurs in a discrete mode; in the opposite case, a quasi-homogeneous combustion mode occurs. Development of the discrete cellular model does not discard the quasi-homogeneous approach but markedly extends the scope of combustion theory. This extension enables explanation of many old and new experimental results that could not be rationalized within the framework of homogeneous theory.