OZONE PRODUCTION AND DE-NOX MODELING IN DRY AIR ELECTRICAL DISCHARGES

Numerical simulations are performed to assess the possibility of using different kinds of electrical discharges operating in dry air under n ormal conditions as ozone generators. The ozone production and NOx des truction efficiency are investigated as a function of discharge parame ters such as the reduced electric field, the energy deposition, and th e electron density. The specific energy deposition becomes a key param eter to compare the different classes of ozonators. During the operati ve phase the electric discharge produces an appreciable amount of nitr ogen oxides. Taking into consideration both the active phase of flue g as processing and the post-discharge phase it is possible to achieve a good NOx-removal efficiency even for initial concentrations as high a s 1000 ppm. The main processes and characteristic times are discussed.