Methane Decomposition Leading to Deposit Formation in a DC Positive CH₄–N₂ Corona Discharge

Horvath, G.; Zahoran, M.; Mason, N. J. and Matejcik, S. (2011). Methane Decomposition Leading to Deposit Formation in a DC Positive CH₄–N₂ Corona Discharge. Plasma Chemistry and Plasma Processing, 31(2) pp. 327–335.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11090-010-9284-x

Abstract

We have explored the formation of chemical species produced in a positive coaxial corona discharge fed by a mixture of N₂ and CH₄ at atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature. Gaseous products were detected by IR spectroscopy whilst solid products, deposited on the electrodes, were examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis. The temporal evolution of gaseous products C₂H₂, HCN and C₂H₆ are also reported. These results may assist in the interpretation of results from the recent Cassini Huygens space mission as they may provide a simulation of the chemical processes occuring in Titan's atmosphere.

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