A review of experimental approaches, trends and opportunities in plasma-based gas conversion research

Plasma-based gas conversion has emerged as a sustainable and promising approach for chemical production, attracting increasing attention in recent years. Significant progress has been achieved in areas such as nitrogen fixation, CO₂ conversion, methane activation, and others, driven by the contributions of researchers from diverse disciplines. Given that most research in this field is experimental, the methodologies employed play a pivotal role and demand careful consideration. However, due to the interdisciplinary nature of the field and variations in research objectives, available resources, and laboratory standards, experimental set-ups and approaches often differ significantly. Moreover, critical details regarding operational techniques and key methodologies are sometimes overlooked. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the methodologies and experimental approaches used in the study of plasma-based gas conversion for chemical production. It first examines experimental systems, including plasma reactor design, plasma-catalyst integration, and set-up configuration. Subsequently, operational schemes, conditions, and analytical procedures are discussed, with examples showcasing state-of-the-art advancements. Finally, discussion on emerging research trends and potential opportunities are presented, aiming to inspire further advancements and broaden the scope of this growing field.