Studies on the inhomogeneous nature of the silent discharge reactor: Part 1. Experimental investigations

Commercial application of the silent discharge reactor is confined to its use for the manufacture of ozone. Free electron concentration in the reaction space is determined by the occurrence of electron avalanches between the dielectrics and generation of transient primary reaction zones (PRZ) where the electron –‐ molecule collision reactions take place. Experimental studies have been carried out in order to increase the frequency of occurrence of PRZs as well as to enhance the mean electron energy within an individual avalanche. The dielectric surface has been treated with P.T.F.E. to reduce the recombination rate of O‐atoms. Results indicated that both methods of modifying the current pulse train have influenced the pattern of utilization of electrical energy. Similarly a P.T.F.E. coated dielectric has been found to be more efficient than an ordinary glass dielectric.