Abstract
This paper focuses on the dissociation of carbon dioxide (CO2) following the absorption processes of microwave radiation by noncontact metal wire (tungsten). Using a microwave plasma generator (MPG) with a single-mode cavity, we conducted an interaction of microwaves with a noncontact electrode in a CO2 atmosphere. High energy levels of electromagnetic radiation are generated in the focal point of the MPG’s cylindrical cavity. The metal wires are vaporized and ionized from this area, subsequently affecting the dissociation of CO2. The CO2 dissociation is highlighted through plasma characterization and carbon monoxide (CO) quantity determination. For plasma characterization, we used an optical emission spectroscopy method (OES), and for CO quantity determination, we used a gas analyzer instrument. Using an MPG in the CO2 atmosphere, we obtained a high electron temperature of the plasma and a strong dissociation of CO2. After 20 s of the interaction between microwaves and noncontact electrodes, the quantity of CO increased from 3 ppm to 1377 ppm (0.13% CO). This method can be used in space applications to dissociate CO2 and refresh the atmosphere of closed spaces.
Highlights
The exploration of the Universe has been an important goal of international space programs for decades
Using an microwave plasma generator (MPG) with a single-mode cylindrical cavity in 2010 [18], we demonstrated that lead metal wires with diameters less than 0.5 mm can be vaporized and ionized by microwaves
We investigated the possibility of controlling the quantity of metal which are vaporized and ionized in this manner [19]
Summary
The exploration of the Universe has been an important goal of international space programs for decades. The building of the International Space Station (ISS) is the most important engineering feat of humankind, as its existence provides the opportunity to consider further exploration of other planets. NASA and its international partners have recently begun to plan the exploration of Mars, with the hope of bringing new opportunities and knowledge to Earth. All life-sustaining resources for the ISS are from Earth. In order to carry out long-term interplanetary missions, it is necessary to develop new oxygen recycling technologies for astronauts’ breathing apparatus. In such conditions, the dissociation of CO2 using plasma systems may be a good choice
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