INVESTIGATIONS CONCERNING ENERGY STORAGE USING A LOW-PRESSURE GAS DISCHARGE.
Abstract
Ceresin wax, n-octacosane, and methane have been subjected to treatment in a plasma discharge of the abnormal negative glow type. A polymer formed on a liquid-nitrogen temperature substrate plate as a result of the treatment. The polymer was collected and subjected to tests designed to reveal its energy content and chemical structure. Energy content was determined by oxygen bomb calorimetry. The object of the program was to produce polymers with heats of combustion which exceeded 15 Kcal/g. The best data were obtained with methane, and many of the details of the processes of polymer formation were determined. It is believed the methane is transformed, in the volume of the discharge, into a mixture consisting primarily of acetylene and ethylene in the ratio of about one-to-one. This material diffuses to the cold surfaces and condenses to form a solid deposit. The deposit that forms in the region of the cold plate which is subjected to direct bombardment by high-velocity electrons from the cathode dark space region of the discharge is polymerized and remains as a solid product when the system is returned to room temperature. The remainder of the deposit which is believed to be a mechanical mixture of acetylene and ethylene evaporates and is pumped away as the system warms up.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0392427
Entities
People
- A. S. Penfold
- E. A. Mclennan
- F. A. Thornton