Performance evaluation of a non-thermal plasma-based corona discharge system with high electric field intensity for airborne pathogen removal

• Performance Evaluation of a Non-Thermal Plasma-Based Corona Discharge System with High Electric Field Intensity for Airborne Pathogen Removal • A high-voltage corona discharge device was created to produce non-thermal plasma for effective airborne microorganism inactivation. • The pointed-tip electrode configuration significantly improved electric field intensity and discharge efficiency. • The approach attained complete inactivation of Bacillus subtilis within 10 minutes, as verified by SEM analysis indicating significant cellular damage. • The Electric Field Strength mode had the greatest disinfection efficacy, although necessitated suitable NOₓ management systems. This study examines a corona discharge system that produces non-thermal plasma using a high intensity electric field established between a flat plate and a sharp-pointed electrode. The plasma conditions contributed to the generation of reactive chemical species, especially ozone (O 3 ) and nitrogen oxides (NO X ), acknowledged for their potent antimicrobial properties. Controlled laboratory experiments occurred using Bacillus subtilis spores as a standard biological indicator organism to assess sterilization efficacy because of their established resistance and safety for laboratory applications. The results demonstrated a clear correlation between electric field intensity and the concentration of reactive species. In the Electric Field Strength regime (1,136.36 kV/m), O₃ and NOₓ concentrations attained 9.40 ± 0.19 ppm and 23.98 ± 1.30 ppm, respectively, resulting in 98.99% inactivation of B. subtilis within 5 minutes and total sterilization (100%) within 10 minutes at an airflow rate of 40 L/min. The findings illustrate the capability of corona discharge-based plasma systems as safe, residue-free, and environmentally sustainable methods for real-time air disinfection in enclosed, high-risk conditions.