2D-temperature imaging of single droplets and sprays using thermographic phosphors

A novel 2D-technique for temperature visualization of single droplets and sprays is presented. Laser induced emission from thermographic phosphor seeded to the investigated liquid was detected by a fast framing camera. The subsequent phosphorescence images measured by seven consecutively gated CCD detectors allowed pixel-to-pixel lifetime evaluation of the phosphorescence emission. The temperature at each pixel position was evaluated using a calibration procedure of temperature against lifetime. These measurements were applied first to a free falling water based droplet, then to a suspended droplet in an ultrasonic levitator. Finally, the technique was applied to spray.