The development and application of a fast-response DC-coupled flame ionization current sensor

The principles of the design of a fast-response DC-coupled ionisation probe and associated electronic circuit are described for the measurement of the mean and fluctuating components of the ion concentration in the reaction zones of stationary and transient flames. The performance of the ionisation probe is evaluated by bench tests and with measurements of ion current mean and fluctuating levels in laminar and turbulent premixed flames and in the combustion chamber of a spark ignition engine. The results demonstrate the wide frequency bandwidth, good spatial resolution and electronic noise immunity of the ionisation probe, making it suitable for a host of combustion applications.