Hexane decomposition without particle emission using a novel dielectric barrier discharge reactor filled with porous dielectric balls

Abstract

This study investigated the decomposition of n-hexane in 15% O2 (N2 balance) in dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactors filled with three different kinds of dielectric balls, viz. quartz, less porous, and porous alumina balls. Products of n-hexane decomposition were analyzed by using a gas chromatograph (GC), gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS). The main products of n-hexane decomposition are CO, CO2, and liquid particles. The DBD reactor filled with porous alumina balls can completely adsorb the liquid particles and reduce particle emission. GC–MS and FTIR analysis results show that the liquid particles mainly compose 3-hexanone and 2-hexanone.