ACETONE CONVERSION IN A LOW-PRESSURE OXYGEN-SURFACE WAVE PLASMA

Destruction and removal efficiencies for acetone have been studied in a low pressure (4-8 Torr) oxygen plasma sustained at radio frequencies (rf) by surface waves. The solvent was introduced into the tubular reactor either as a vapor or as a fine mist using an ultrasonic nebulizer. The discharge was generated by a wave launcher external to the reactor tube, and product analysis consisted of on-line flame ionization gas chromatography techniques. Conversion efficiencies approaching 100% were achieved using low powers, millisecond-range residence times, and high solvent concentrations, without the need of the high temperatures required in thermal processes. The dependence of acetone removal on molar ratio, absorbed rf power, and pressure were studied in order to postulate possible reaction pathways and to discern the optimum discharge conditions to further improve destruction and removal efficiencies.