Optimization of COIL with jet in supersonic section based on mixing process

Three-dimensional algorithms solving laminar Navier-Stokes equations coupled with chemical reaction and transportation equations are developed. Detailed flow field and distribution of yield, dissociation and pumping rates and small signal gain are obtained which cannot easily be got in experiments. The reason that experimental results are not as good as that in theories is analyzed. Furthermore, a better way to operate the system is suggested. It is shown that the mixing and chemical process in a nozzle of limited length is not complete due to the high speed in supersonic mixing zone and low mixing efficiency. Higher iodine concentration for speeding up chemical reaction causes insufficient of singlet oxygen, so as an unreasonable gain. A primary flow without buffer gas is claimed necessary and essential to reduce flow velocity and assure mixing process and chemical reaction accomplished before arriving the cavity. With an appropriate flow rate ratio, a small signal gain can reach 1.3% cm^-1.