Non-Isothermal Plasma Jet Generator with Laminar Gas Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-isothermal plasma generators face challenges with spatial non-uniformity, instability, and limited control over plasma jet generation, leading to inefficient energy use and reduced effectiveness in applications like waste destruction.
Innovation Solution
A method for generating an axisymmetric non-isothermal plasma jet using high-voltage electrical discharges in a gas flow, where the gas flow is stabilized to achieve pseudo-laminar conditions, minimizing energy exchanges and allowing for a longer, more controlled plasma jet with improved stability and uniformity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If isothermal plasma generators are used at atmospheric pressure, then the plasma can effectively destroy organic molecules through high temperature, but the temperature level (6000-12000 K) becomes excessive and leads to enormous energy expenditure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the fundamental parameter of plasma temperature uniformity from isothermal to non-isothermal. By creating a plasma where electron temperature (Te) is much higher than heavy particle temperature (Ta), the system achieves effective waste destruction through high-energy electrons while maintaining lower overall temperature that reduces energy expenditure and avoids excessive thermal effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates different temperature conditions in different parts of the plasma system. The electron population maintains high temperature (6000-12000 K) for effective chemical reactions, while the heavy particles (atoms, molecules, ions) are kept at lower temperature (2000-2500 K), creating a non-isothermal plasma that optimizes both reaction effectiveness and energy efficiency.
2Use of energy by moving object
If non-isothermal plasma generators are used, then energy expenditure is reduced and plasma jet can be more controlled, but the plasma generation exhibits spatial non-uniformity and instability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs a dynamic sliding arc mechanism between diverging electrodes where the arc continuously moves along the electrode surfaces. This dynamic movement, driven by electromagnetic forces and gas flow, creates a plasma jet that maintains stability through continuous regeneration rather than static equilibrium, overcoming the instability issue while preserving non-isothermal energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where the plasma cloud lifetime and electromagnetic forces self-regulate the arc movement and plasma generation. The plasma cloud persists longer than the pulse duration, allowing the system to maintain stable operation through automatic adjustment of discharge parameters based on plasma state feedback.
3Temperature
If sliding arc principle is used between diverging electrodes, then non-isothermal plasma can be generated, but the plasma jet exhibits spatial non-uniformity and limited dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding arc mechanism creates a dynamic plasma generation process where the arc moves continuously along the diverging electrodes. This movement, combined with gas flow propulsion, generates a more uniform plasma jet distribution in space compared to static discharge configurations, while maintaining the non-isothermal temperature profile essential for energy efficiency.
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
The method enables the creation of a stable, elongated non-isothermal plasma jet with reduced energy losses, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of plasmochemical reactions, particularly in waste destruction and recycling processes.
Implementation Method 1
using a single-phase or three-phase direct or alternating current high-voltage electrical discharge
Implementation Method 2
the amplitude of the electric field which accelerates the electrons of the plasma and causes there the reactions of excitation and ionization
Implementation Method 3
propelled by an electromagnetic force and by the drag force exerted by the gas flow
Implementation Method 4
propelled by an electromagnetic force and by the drag force exerted by the gas flow
Implementation Method 5
the flow of gas propelling the plasma of the discharge is stabilized at all points of the resulting plasma jet, the relative velocity of the gas, V*, at any point of the propelling flow, obeying the relation like: V* ≤ V 0 (D 0 /D) where V 0 is the speed of a laminarized flow
Implementation Method 6
discharge initiated by a breakdown plasma
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for generating an axisymmetric non-isothermal plasma jet by means of a high-voltage electrical discharge of a single-phase or three-phase direct or alternating current into a gas flow, wherein said discharge is initiated by a discharge plasma, propelled by an electromagnetic force and by the drag force exerted by the gas flow and localized at the ends of the electrodes, characterized in that the gas flow propelling the plasma of the discharge is stabilized and laminarized at all points of the resulting plasma jet, and to a device for using the method comprising, in particular, a gas propellant dispenser consisting of elements for the laminarization of the flow in a honeycomb system or an abruptly expanding system, wherein a system of magnetic fields forms the plasma cords and conduits for the introduction of the propulsion and rotation gas components of the propulsion gas flow.