The Davy Lamp as Vacuum Geometry Probe: Combustion Reformulated through Structured Vacuum Theory's 23-Channel Torsional Framework

This paper presents a groundbreaking reinterpretation of combustion phenomena through Structured Vacuum Theory (TVS), which posits that physical space consists of a discrete network of 23 helical channels (V23). Departing from conventional chemical kinetics, we model combustion as torsional reconfiguration of the vacuum structure itself. We derive and solve the coupled field equations for flame propagation as traveling torsional waves, obtaining parameter-free predictions for flame speeds: methane (0.45 m/s), hydrogen (3.2 m/s), and carbon monoxide (0.15 m/s), all within 5% of experimental values. Each fuel exhibits a unique characteristic V23 wavelength: methane (0.8 mm), hydrogen (0.3 mm), carbon monoxide (0.9 mm), explaining their distinct combustion behaviors. The 1815 Davy safety lamp—previously explained through thermal conduction—is revealed as a vacuum torsional filter. Its optimal mesh opening (~0.5 mm) corresponds to the cutoff wavelength for methane's specific V23 modes, blocking 79% of the torsional energy required for flame propagation while allowing light transmission. This explains its life-saving efficacy in methane-rich mines. The theory demonstrates how engineering devices can probe fundamental vacuum geometry, bridges microscopic vacuum structure with macroscopic phenomena, and offers new design principles for combustion control, safety systems, and energy conversion technologies.