On the construction and use of reduced chemical kinetic mechanisms produced on the basis of given algebraic relations

An algorithm proposed by Chen (Combust. Sci. Technol. 57, 89 (1988)) for the construction of reduced chemical kinetic mechanisms is reviewed. It is shown that the algorithm can be formally used only with the steady state approximation. A new algorithm is presented which can accept more general assumptions. However, for the new algorithm to be successful these assumptions must meet a certain condition which is presented. The reduced mechanisms generated by both algorithms do not provide optimum accuracy and stability in numerical simulations. This can be achieved by a specific refinement of these reduced mechanisms according to the CSP method.