Application of pulsed discharge plasma for methanol synthesis

Abstract

Synthesis of methanol using pulsed discharge plasma process is gaining significance. We report the production of methanol from methane and CO/sub 2//H/sub 2/O, using pulsed discharge. Experiments were conducted at very low temperature (-192/spl deg/C) in addition to normal room temperature. Two types of plasma reactors, cylindrical and rectangular, were tested for methanol production with different corona electrodes (straight wire, helical wire and barbed plate). Gas analysis was carried out by GC-MS and the yield of methanol at various operating conditions was compared and discussed. Experiments were carefully conducted laboratory environment.