A Microplasma Reactor for Chemical Process Intensification

A novel approach to chemical process intensification based on microplasma reactor systems is presented. Microplasmas (plasmas generated in sub-mm volumes) possess a favorable reaction environment because of high densities of reactive ions, radicals, and electrons. Moreover, operation under atmospheric pressure and near-room temperature makes them convenient for implementation. Experiments utilized a microfabricated microplasma reactor to intensify the reforming of methanol into a hydrogen-rich product stream useful for energy applications such as combustion or fuel cells. A reaction model elaborates the key mechanisms and demonstrates that reaction rates in the microplasma environment surpass those of conventional plasma reactors. The outcome is that microplasma chemical processing is a viable approach for hydrocarbon reforming and merits consideration for other chemical reaction applications.