Enhancement of the destruction of propane in a low-temperature plasma by the addition of unsaturated hydrocarbons: Experiment and modeling

The oxidative destruction of propane at low temperature (∼ 50 °C) in a nonthermal, atmospheric pressure plasma can be significantly enhanced without the use of a catalyst by the simple addition of an unsaturated alkene. An enhancement in the destruction of propane of up to 45% can be achieved by the addition of propene. Propene acts as a supply of OH radicals, which accelerate the breakdown of the propane. Ethene also enhances the destruction of propane but to a more limited extent. The experimental results are interpreted by chemical modeling, which is used to elucidate the reaction mechanisms. © 2008 American Chemical Society.