FTIR and QCL diagnostics of the decomposition of volatile organic compounds in an atmospheric pressure dielectric packed bed plasma reactor

Abstract

Non-thermal atmospheric plasmas can be used to decompose toxic volatile organics. A dielectric packed bed plasma reactor was used to decompose dichloromethane (DCM) in a flowing gas mixture of nitrogen and oxygen. The effect of varying the oxygen concentration on the decomposition of dichloromethane was investigated. A comparison has been made of spectroscopic diagnostics based on FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared) spectroscopy and infrared quantum cascade laser spectroscopy for the detection of nitric oxide produced in the plasma reactor. © 2009 IOP Publishing Ltd.