Infrared analysis of nano organic particles produced in laminar flames

In this work we present the first infrared investigation of nano-sized organic carbon (NOC) particles produced in premixed laminar ethylene flames. We analyzed the chemical transformation of NOC when the combustible/oxidant ratio (C/O) passed from lean to slightly sooting conditions. We also demonstrate the increase of the aromatic character for samples under thermal treatment. The analysis of the infrared spectra clearly shows the persistence of this material after soot inception.