AbstractsChemistry

A study of the effect of various compounds on the oxidation of butane was proposed to see if any correlation could be found between the thermal behavior of such reactions and the effect of the same compounds when added to fuel used in an octane rating engine. Fuels for internal combustion engines differ markedly in the way in which they burn within the cylinder. Some burn in such a manner that the engine operates smoothly; others cause what is generally known as knocking. Although a great amount of work has been done investigating this matter and many theories proposed, the exact cause of the knocking is unknown. The work done has been largely of two types: (1) use of knock rating engines and (2) studies of the oxidation of hydrocarbons. A very complete review of the work done and theories proposed has been presented by Davis (3) and Ogilvie (7). Only a very brief discussion of the oxidation of hydrocarbons will be given here.[...]