One-dimensional simulation of hydrogen production kinetic models by water vapor plasmolysis in a DBD plate reactor

Abstract

The results of one-dimensional time-dependent simulation modeling of hydrogen production from water vapor dissociation using non-thermal discharge plasma in a plate-type reactor were developed. Three different water vapor dissociation reaction mechanisms pathway models were simulated at a water vapor temperature of 573 K and same boundary conditions. The electron collision cross sections of electron water vapor were utilized based on the reaction mechanisms. The electron attachment and detachment processes were described in detail; additionally, the surface charge accumulation, recombination of charged species, positive and negative ions production and losses are considered. The electron density, electric field, electric potential, electron temperature and the hydrogen mass fraction are presented across the plasma discharge gap and over time. The first model was described as direct water vapor decomposition into their constituent’s elements hydrogen and oxygen molecules. It was revealed that the formed hydrogen molecules increased across the plasma discharge gap over time. In model II, the simulation reaction mechanisms pathway included products of H2O+, OH+, and O+ ions. It was found a significant change in the electric potential and electric field across the discharge gap due to the charged species inside the plasma gap. In model III, it was introduced H− radicals which controlled H atoms production by the electron detachment reaction. The most interesting results of these simulation models were the growing of hydrogen molecules across the plasma gap over time. Further, it was observed that the produced hydrogen mass fraction from model III was higher than model II and model I.