Ionic Liquid-Based Gas Generators Using High Voltage Nanosecond Pulse Discharge

We demonstrate a novel method for generating gas from low-vapor-pressure ionic liquids using high-voltage (up to 50 kV), nanosecond-scale (10–20 ns) electrical pulses in a coaxial electrode configuration. These rapid discharges initiate gas evolution through electrostriction-driven bubble formation, enabling efficient decomposition of ionic liquids without the need for sustained heating or catalytic assistance. Compared to DC and thermally driven techniques, the nanosecond pulse method produces significantly greater gas volumes in shorter times, with enhanced performance observed when energetic additives are included. The resulting gaseous products were analyzed using quadrupole mass spectrometry, confirming successful volatilization of ionic liquid components. These species possess relatively large atomic masses─comparable to xenon─but are stored in a densified liquid form rather than as compressed gases in cylinders, offering a promising pathway for compact, on-demand gas generation in propulsion and energy systems.