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

摘要

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 O_2 and N_2 molecules is followed under different plasma jet conditions and NO gas flows, and the effect of N_2 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.