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 re actor either as a vapor or as a fine mist using an ultrasonic nebulize r. The discharge was generated by a wave launcher external to the reac tor tube, and product analysis consisted of on-line flame ionization g as chromatography techniques. Conversion efficiencies approaching 100% were achieved using low powers, millisecond-range residence times, an d high solvent concentrations, without the need of the high temperatur es 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 disch arge conditions to further improve destruction and removal efficiencie s.