Effects of Surface-Wave-Sustained Argon Plasma Torch Interaction with Liquids

Abstract

In this paper, an investigation of the interaction of a surface-wave-sustained argon plasma torch with liquids is presented. The plasma is produced by an electromagnetic wave traveling along the plasma–dielectric interface, and at the same time, the plasma is a part of this waveguide structure. Because the interaction of the plasma torch with water (liquid) results in modifications of the properties of both the treated water and the plasma itself, a detailed study of the effects in both media is required. The results of the experimental investigation of a surface-wave-sustained argon plasma torch interaction with liquids show significant changes in the plasma parameters, such as the electron excitation temperature Te and the average rotation temperature Trot. In addition, mechanical waves are produced both in the meniscus surface and in the plasma torch by the interaction between the plasma torch (ionized gas with charged particles and electric field) and the liquid surface, which is different from the effects produced by a neutral gas jet on a liquid surface. As a result of the plasma–water interaction, the water’s chemical and physical characteristics, such as the water conductivity, pH, and H2O2 concentration, are modified. As a possible application for water purification, the performed SWD treatment of model wastewater shows a significant variation in nitrate, ammonium, phosphate, and COD (chemical oxygen demand) concentration as a result of the treatment.