Modelling of NO destruction in a low-pressure reactor by an Ar plasma jet: species abundances in the reactor

Abstract

The destruction of NO molecules by an Ar plasma jet in a low-pressure (0.2 Torr) reactor is investigated by means of a 3D hydrodynamic model. The density distribution of species created through molecular kinetics triggered by the collision of Ar+ with NO is calculated, showing that in the case of the most abundant species a quasi-homogeneous density distribution builds up in a large part of the reactor. The conversion of NO into stable O2 and N2 molecules is followed under different plasma jet conditions and NO gas flows, and the effect of N2 addition on NO destruction is studied. It is shown that in the present system the reproduction of NO molecules on the surface through surface-assisted recombination of N and O atoms becomes impossible due to the fast disappearance of N atoms in the jet's inlet vicinity.