Characterization and modeling of supercritical CO2 pulse pressures: Effects of activator mass and discharge plate thickness

Abstract

Utilizing a bespoke CO₂ phase transition pulse pressure experimental system, we conducted pulse pressure characterization tests across various activator masses, CO₂ filling pressures, and energy discharge plate thicknesses. This approach enabled us to ascertain the pulse pressure's response characteristics and variation patterns under diverse conditions. The formula for calculating the peak supercritical CO₂ pulse pressure was deduced by modeling the ultimate load calculation of the clamped circular plate, and then the time-course expression of the supercritical CO₂ phase transition pulse pressure and energy was carried out by introducing the time factor and taking into account the parameters of the activator mass and the thickness of the energy discharging plate. Our findings reveal a four-stage pressure evolution in the cracking tube during initiation: a gradual increase, a rapid spike, swift attenuation, and eventual negative pressure formation. The activator mass and discharge plate thickness critically influence the peak pressure's timing and magnitude. Specifically, increased activator mass hastens peak pressure onset, while a thicker discharge plate amplifies it. The errors between calculated and experimental values for peak supercritical CO₂ phase transition pressure fall within −5%–5%. Furthermore, the pressure peak and arrival time model demonstrates less than 10% error compared to experimental data, affirming its strong applicability. These insights offer theoretical guidance for controlling phase transition pressure and optimizing energy in supercritical CO₂ systems.