Process-chemistry intensification using non-thermal plasmas: Toward one-step chemical production

Abstract

Decarbonizing the chemical industry requires process electrification. Non-thermal plasmas present an electrification alternative to fossil fuel-based thermal chemistry due to their modularity, fast dynamics, and compatibility with renewable energy sources. Their most remarkable quality is the non-equilibrium state between molecules and high-energy electrons, enabling molecular activation at mild conditions. Unlike chemical manufacturing constrained by thermal activation, limiting feedstock options and necessitating multistep processes, plasma electron impact excitation can open direct (one step) chemical synthesis. We highlight the potential of plasmas from the perspective of process-chemistry intensification.