DC Thermal Plasma Reactor for Materials Processing

Abstract

Over the years preparation of refractory materials in a plasma reactor has been gaining importance due to availability of very high temperature. The configuration and type (transferred/non-transferred, AC/DC/RF) of reactors and choice of electrodes (consumable/ non-consumable) differ depending on the applications. The paper describes design and development of a nontransferred arc DC plasma reactor, equipped with graphite electrodes, that enables uniform heating of the charge without contamination. Various operating parameters have been optimized to achieve the stable plasma, Performance of the plasma reactor has been tested by preparing mixed rare earth oxides color pigment. The pigment has been characterized and compared with the one prepared by conventional method.