Barrier Discharge Electrode Segmentation for NOx and Ozone Plasma
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices struggle to simultaneously generate nitrogen oxide and ozone modes efficiently and cost-effectively for germ reduction on surfaces, while also allowing for controlled operation.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a hollow cylindrical dielectric with an inner and outer electrode arrangement, utilizing a rectangular mesh fabric and a plug-in mechanism, allows for simultaneous generation of nitrogen oxide and ozone modes with controlled plasma discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional plasma devices operate in high-power mode to generate nitrogen oxides for effective bacterial decontamination, then germ reduction efficacy is improved, but ozone concentration increases causing undesirable side effects
Solution Approach 1:
The outer electrode is divided into multiple independent electrode segments arranged along the dielectric barrier. Each segment can be independently controlled to operate in different discharge modes (nitrogen oxide mode or ozone mode), allowing spatial separation of the two plasma chemistry regimes and enabling simultaneous generation of both reactive species without mutual interference
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the plasma device are configured with different operating characteristics. By applying different voltages or frequencies to different electrode segments, local areas can be optimized for specific functions: some regions generate nitrogen oxides for antimicrobial activity while others generate ozone for different applications, with each region having tailored plasma parameters
2Device complexity
If a single electrode configuration is used for barrier discharge, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to simultaneously generate both nitrogen oxide and ozone modes is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode system is segmented into multiple independent units that can be selectively activated. This segmentation allows the device to achieve multiple plasma modes through simple selective activation rather than requiring completely different electrode configurations, maintaining relative simplicity while enhancing versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode segments are designed to serve multiple functions: they can operate in nitrogen oxide mode for antimicrobial applications, in ozone mode for different applications, or in combination modes. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified electrode design that can be electrically controlled to produce different discharge characteristics
3Power
If high voltage is applied to generate sufficient discharge power for effective plasma generation, then plasma generation capability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma device operates with periodic voltage cycles that can be optimized for efficiency. By using alternating voltage at appropriate frequencies and duty cycles, the system achieves effective plasma generation while minimizing peak power requirements and overall energy consumption compared to continuous high-voltage operation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and cost-effective generation of nitrogen oxide and ozone plasmas, reducing undesirable effects like high ozone concentrations and enhancing germ reduction efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
A dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) is a type of non-thermal plasma generated by applying an alternating voltage to electrodes separated by an insulating layer (e.g., a dielectric material)
Implementation Method 2
the most frequently identified species include ozone (O3), nitrous oxide (N2O), nitric acid (HNO3), nitrous acid (HNO2) and nitrogen dioxide
Implementation Method 3
Applying an alternating voltage to the inner electrode creates a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD), which generates reactive species
Data Source
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AI summary
Device (10) for atmospheric barrier discharge, use thereof for plug-in assembly and method for operating thereof, wherein the device (10) comprises: at least one hollow cylindrical dielectric (2) having an inner surface and an outer surface and having a dielectric constant greater than 4, a plug-in device (3) having at least one retaining means (3c) on which at least one inner electrode (4) and at least one outer electrode (1) are arranged and on which the hollow cylindrical dielectric (2) is arranged in order to be held on the plug-in device (3), the inner electrode (4) which is arranged inside the hollow cylindrical dielectric (2) and bears against the inner surface, and an outer electrode (1) which has a rectangular mesh fabric (21) and bears against the outer surface of the dielectric (2).