Numerical study of homogeneous nucleation of boron oxide vapors in Laval nozzles

A model of unsteady homogeneous nucleation of boron oxide vapors in chemically reacting gas mixtures is developed. This model is applied to perform a numerical study of homogeneous nucleation of boron oxide vapors in Laval nozzles with different geometric configurations. Typical values of the sizes of boron oxide condensation cores and their concentrations are determined. The potential barrier of nucleation, nucleation rate, and nucleation delay time are estimated. Important qualitative features of homogeneous nucleation evolution along the nozzle are identified. Based on the data obtained, recommendations on model application and its further development are formulated.