Utilizing A One-Atmosphere Uniform Discharge Plasma for Bio/Chem Agent Sterilization/Decon

摘要

Initial experimental results demonstrated that the One Atmosphere Uniform Glow Discharge Plasma (OAUGDP) will cause structural changes in simulants for chemical agents. Phase I results established 'proof of concept', that is, that the active species generated by the OAUGDP will react with and cause structural changes in chemical agent simulants. This was demonstrated using the simulant methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen). Gas chromatography/ mass spectrometry results indicate the formation of a new species with a molecular weight 16 amu greater than methyl salicylate. Based partially on this, the plasma active species is postulated to be atomic oxygen. It should be noted that methyl salicylate does not appear to react with ozone gas under standard temperature and pressure conditions. Also arising from the Phase I work is the elucidation of three distinct theories covering electrohydrodynamic (EHD) methods of neutral gas flow control. The theories are comprehensively discussed in the theoretical results section of this report. EHD flow control was developed during the Phase I work and was supported in part by Phase I funds.