3D modelling of the synthesis of copper nanoparticles by means of a DC transferred arc twin torch plasma system

An atmospheric pressure DC transferred arc twin torch thermal plasma system has been characterized by 3D simulation in order to assess its potential for the synthesis of Cu nanoparticles from solid precursors. The numerical model also takes into account the non-negligible effect on process temperature of radiative losses, transport and thermodynamic properties of Cu vapour. In the frame of design-oriented simulation and optimization of the synthesis process, mean diameter and yield of the synthetized nanoparticles have been investigated for different current levels, gas flow rates, precursor feed rates and nanoparticles model. Results show that evaporation efficiency is considerably high even at precursor feed rates up to 25 kg d(-1), while the presence of vortices inside the chambers causes a significative loss of nanoparticles to the reactor walls, with a detrimental effect to the yield.