DC high voltage corona discharge: production of reactive species in deionized water

Abstract The generation of discharges from a DC voltage source for treating large polluted areas, such as soil, air, and water, has been investigated using an innovative approach. In this study, the device’s effectiveness was assessed using deionized water as a target by analyzing geometric, electrical, and physicochemical parameters, as well as the production of hydrogen peroxide, nitrite, and nitrate. Electrical characterization of the discharge indicates that under the tested conditions, the discharge remains stable throughout treatment, resulting in constant production of species for 30 min. A voltage of 10 kV maximizes the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species while ensuring system stability. Treatment lasting 15 min at an inter-electrode distance of 5 mm produced significant concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, nitrite, and nitrate (1.41 mg l −1 for H 2 O 2 , 1.23 mg l −1 for NO 2 − , and 2.39 mg l −1 for NO 3 − ).