DETERMINATION OF CHEMICAL SPECIES PREVALENT IN A PLASMA JET.
Abstract
A modified time-of-flight mass spectrometer, equipped with a specially designed inlet system, was used to conduct investigations of an arc plasma jet exhausting into the atmosphere to provide a better understanding of the chemical and physical processes occurring in this type of extreme thermal environment. Various aspects of the interaction between the inlet probe and an atmospheric pressure plasma sample were clarified. Probable velocity distribution perturbations were observed, and changes in sample concentrations as a result of species separations occurring during the supersonic expansion were observed and correlated. Additional species identifications and measurements were performed. In particular, neutral 44CO2 was detected, and its concentration in the plasma sample was determined. Detection sensitivities for neutral species present in the input gas-plasma flow down to the 0.01 percent level were demonstrated. Detailed information describing the differences between those mechanisms governing the entrainment, mixing, and ionization of species from the atmosphere and those governing the distribution and ionization of species injected directly into the arc chamber was derived. In addition, the repeatability of the complete system was determined. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0608867
Entities
People
- G. J. O'halloran
- L. W. Walker