Atmospheric Pressure Glow Discharge in a Mixture of Carbon Dioxide and Methane

ABSTRACT The electrical characteristics, emission spectra, and composition of gas products in a DC discharge mixture of CO 2 and CH 4 at different polarities of the applied voltage and an AC discharge (50 Hz) at atmospheric pressure and different ratios of CO 2 and CH 4 flow rates have been investigated. The best degree of CH 4 decomposition is about 95%. The degree of CO 2 decomposition ranges from 85%−95% at a CO 2 /CH 4 consumption ratio equal to one. The best characteristics of the decomposition process are obtained in a direct current discharge under conditions when the cathode is located in the part of the discharge tube opposite to the point of introduction of the gas mixture.