Plasma catalytic conversion of CO2 in a dielectric barrier discharge: the complex interplay of materials and plasma

Plasma technology uses (renewable) electrical energy for gas ionization at non-equilibrium conditions, giving access to alternative (activated) reaction pathways compared to the current thermal chemical conversion processes.... [ view full abstract ]

Plasma technology uses (renewable) electrical energy for gas ionization at non-equilibrium conditions, giving access to alternative (activated) reaction pathways compared to the current thermal chemical conversion processes. This enables process intensification, new production methodologies and energy storage in chemicals. However, current bottlenecks of chemical plasma conversion are its low selectivity and energy efficiency in case of DBD (dielectric barrier discharge) reactors.

The efficiency of plasma conversion (energy, time space yield, selectivity) can be substantially improved through the implementation of structured (formulated) packings and catalysts, although some studies exist where the impact was found negligible. These differences seem to originate from the specific interplay of the plasma set-up and operating conditions in correlation to the implemented packing materials. Hence, even though it is generally accepted that the plasma influences the materials properties and vice versa, the key parameters to optimize these mutual interactions are still largely unknown.

Building up knowledge on the impact of the materials properties on the plasma and vice versa the plasma characteristics on the materials, can enable targeted development of materials for maximally improved efficiency and tailor-made selectivity.

This presentation will focus on this mutual and complex interplay of materials in packed bed plasma conversion and the need for materials experts to join forces to uncover the unknowns. In the presentation, the impact of different packing materials, reactor set-ups and operating conditions on the CO₂ splitting reaction and dry reforming of methane with CO₂ will be discussed.