Non-Equilibrium Plasma (NEP) is a state of plasma known as “cold plasma” where the gas is ionized but is only partially energized. Electrons are accelerated by electricity to an excited state of several thousand degrees. However, the atomic nuclei (protons & neutrons) do not reach those extreme temperatures rather maintaining lower temperatures increasing at most a few hundred degrees. The NEP therefore creates a highly catalytic plasma with less wasted thermal energy.
APEC’s NEP Torches are designed to accept process gases into the torch body itself where the plasma arc is directly applied to this gas as it travels through the torch body. The direct interaction of the plasma arc, plume, reactant gas, and working gas ensures significantly more efficient transfer of plasma catalysis effects for maximum conversion. Additionally, operating the torch at lower temperatures achieves the same end results without requiring any external water cooling.
Non-Equilibrium Plasma Torches have a wide variety of green applications, including:
- Synthesis of Hydrogen from Methane and other gases.
- Production of Refined Syngas (H2 + CO) from Raw Syngas containing tars produced by primary-stage gasification and/or pyrolysis units.
- Treatment of Hazardous Hydrocarbons.
Given its lower operating temperature, the NEP System is able to operate for long periods with minimal downtime. Maintenance is reduced and becomes focused on replacing spent electrodes and confirming gaskets are in good working order.
APEC’s First NEP Torch Testing Campaign & Spent Electrode