  Nonpremixed turbulent reacting flows are intrinsically difficult to model due
to the strong coupling between turbulent motions and reaction. The large amount
of heat released by a typical hydrocarbon flame leads to significant
modifications of the thermodynamic variables and the molecular transport
coefficients and thus alters the fluid dynamics. Additionally, in nonpremixed
combustion, the flame has a complex spatial structure. Localized expansions and
contractions occur, enhancing the dilatational motions. Therefore, the
compressibility of the flow and the heat release are intimately related.
However, fundamental studies of the role of compressibility on the scalar
mixing and reaction are scarce. In this paper we present results concerning the
fundamental aspects of the interaction between non-premixed flame and
compressible turbulence.
