Analysis of the consequences of hydrogen-blended natural gas explosions in a residential building

Indoor hydrogen-blended natural gas (HBNG) leakage may lead to more serious explosions, so the aim of this study was to analyze the consequences of HBNG explosions inside residential building. In this study, a numerical model of hydrogen-blended gas explosion in a residential building was developed using FLACS software. The accuracy of the model was verified by comparing it with the actual experimental data. The numerical simulations were performed for different, kitchen structures, ignition positions, equivalence ratios (ERs) and hydrogen blending ratios (HBRs). The results show that the change in blast overpressure depends on the combined effect of the time of breaching the door or window and the rate of combustion. Besides, the time to reach the peak explosion pressure and explosion duration are negatively correlated with the ER, the peak pressure generated by the explosion and the range of the distribution of the explosion temperature are positive correlation with the ER. Furthermore, the results suggest that the mix of hydrogen and natural gas increases the peak explosion pressure and the accelerates flame propagation , which however also shortens the time to peak explosion pressure and the duration of the explosion. It can provide a theoretical basis for the adoption of HBNG explosion protection measures in residential buildings in the future. • Numerical simulation of an explosion in a residential building. • Analysing the consequences of an explosion under four influencing factors. • Factors affecting changes in blast overpressure were analysed. • Reasons affecting the shape of the flame were analyzed.