Effect of the Coil Angle in an Inductively Coupled Plasma Torch: A Novel Two-Dimensional Model

A two-dimensional model has been developed for the calculation of the electromagnetic (EM) fields generated by spiral coil currents, in order to obtain a better representation of the actual configuration used in a typical inductively coupled plasma (ICP) torch. In order to obtain the EM fields in a two-dimensional model, the change of EM field in tangential direction is neglected and the coil is assumed to be a concentric cylinder. In order to justify our assumption, the EM, flow and temperature fields resulting from five-ring coil and concentric cylinder coil are compared and the results are almost the same except for the EM field in the vicinity of the coil. In the case of the spiral coil, the coil current is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane. Therefore current in the cylinder coil is assumed to have the same inclined angle, which is split into tangential and axial components. The axial electric field and hence an axial current in plasma is induced by the axial component of the spiral coil current. Charge density is accumulated in the plasma, since the axial current cannot form a loop. In order to obtain the EM field and the charge distribution in the plasma generated by the spiral coil, the equations of axial vector potential and electrostatic potential have been derived. Due to the swirling Lorentz force (J_z×B_r) an axisymmetrical swirling fluid model is used to simulate the plasma flow in an axisymetrical configuration. With an inclined angle of the coil current being 3.7° and the frequency being 3 MHz, computational results show that the swirling Lorentz force causes plasma swirling with a maximum speed of 3.41 m/s near the plasma center when the injected sheath gas and central gas are not swirling. In these conditions, the real and imaginary parts of the maximum electrostatic potential are 0.95 V and 1.66 V, respectively. When the electrostatic field is neglected, the swirling velocity of the plasma is 3.95 m/s.     

Parametric study of the flow and temperature fields in an inductively coupled r.f. plasma torch

A theoretical investigation of the effect of different parameters on the flow and the temperature fields in a radiofrequency inductively coupled plasma is carried out. The parameters studied are: central injection gas flow rate, total gas flow rate, input power, and the type of plasma gas. The results obtained for argon and nitrogen plasmas at atmospheric pressure indicate that the flow and the temperature fields in the coil region, as well as the heat flux to the wall of the plasma confinement tube, are considerably altered by the changes in the torch operating conditions.     

Thermal imaging of microwave fields inside the surfatron and the microwave plasma torch

A new method is introduced for imaging microwave fields, such as those found in microwave-plasma support structures. The method relies upon the darkening that such fields cause in heat-sensitive paper, such as that used in some telefax printers. With this new method, the microwave-frequency electric fields inside two microwave-plasma support structures, the surfatron and the microwave plasma torch, have been measured and subsequently imaged in three dimensions. The images reveal that the surfatron and microwave plasma torch have different operational behavior. As expected, the electric field strength inside the surfatron exponentially falls off down the length of the quartz plasma tube. The field inside the microwave plasma torch initially diminishes, but then increases in strength towards the end of the tube. An aerosol was introduced into the surfatron to observe the effect of water vapor on the electric field strength and distribution. The exponential axial decay of the electric field in the ‘dry’ surfatron plasma, characteristic of a surface wave propagating down a quartz plasma tube, is extended further down the quartz tube in the ‘wet’ plasma. A drop in plasma conductivity is likely the origin of the elongated propagation of the surface wave.     

New design of a radio-frequency plasma torch

A numerical model has been developed for predicting the two-dimensional flow and temperature fields in a radio-frequency (rf) plasma torch. The method employed here is based on Boulos' model with the exception of the boundary conditions for the electric and magnetic field equations. Calculations have been made for the confirmation of a new sample injection method, which is capable of completely evaporating refractory materials at high feeding rates without interfering with the stability of the plasma. In the newly designed torch, the reagent is radially injected into the hottest part of the plasma through quartz capillary tubes set symmetrically between an inductor coil. Experimental investigations have also been performed for verifying the proper function of the design. These results provide evidence that our radial injection method developed here is more effective in practical processing than the conventional axial injection methods.     

Diffusion phenomena of a cold gas in a thermal plasma stream

The present study involves both experimental investigation and mathematical modeling of the diffusion process of a cold gas injected into a main plasma stream. The cold gas (nitrogen or helium) was injected axially through a water cooled tube located along the centerline of an induction plasma torch. The 2-D distribution of the temperature, velocity and concentration profiles in the plasma flow were measured using enthalpy probe techniques. The results are compared with the predictions of a 2-D, LTE, turbulent mathematical model. The effects of the nature (composition) of the injected gas and its mass flow rate are investigated. The enthalpy probe measurements and the predictions of the model are in good agreement. The effective (turbulent and molecular) transport properties are estimated from a comparison of the measured and calculated profiles of the temperature, velocity and concentration fields. This study sheds light on the basic diffusion mechanisms involved in a widely used configuration of induction plasma reactors, i.e. in which the material to be treated is injected axially into the plasma, through a central water cooled tube.     

Mixing study of the induction plasma reactor: Part II. Radial injection mode

A study was undertaken on the mixing pattern in am induction plasma torch and reactor system. The results presented in this part of the paper relate to the radial injection mode, in which an auxiliary gas is injected into the main plasma stream through a set of 2, 4, or 8 injection ports located in the torch nozzle at the level of the torch exit flange. A much faster mixing of the gases occurred in this mode compared to the axial injection mode investigated in Part I of this paper. As in the case of axial injection, the present study demonstrates that gas mixing, in the presence of the discharge, is considerably more difficult than under ambient temperature conditions. Lower turbulence levels exist in the plasma reactor. due to the considerably higher viscosity of the gases under plasma conditions. Results obtained with a three-point injection flange, in which the injection ports were oriented at 45° to the torch and reactor axes toward the upstream .side, mere most interesting since they achieved essentially the same degree of mixing as was obtained with the radial injection ports without the need to locate the injection ports at the exit nozzle of the plasma torch. This arrangement provides for added flexibility in reactor design.     

一种原子光谱分析用新激发光源——千瓦级微波等离子体炬(kW-MPT)

Based on the simulation of transmission and distribution characteristics of the electromagnetic field inmicrowave plasma torch(MPT) torches with different configurations using electromagnetic simulation software and experimental study, a new MPT torch with double resonant configuration was, for the first time, developed. The results show that the inner tube of MPT torch plays an important role in strengthening the electric field intensity at the open end of the MPT torch and redistributing the electromagnetic field in the whole torch by the formation of the double resonance. It contributes also to enhance the macroscopic stability and the self-sustaining of the plasma. The stability of the plasma was shown to be excellent when the spacer between inner and intermediate tubes is located about 20—30 mm from the top opening of the torch. Preliminary study showed that the analytical performance for 13 common elements was approaching that of traditional ICP-AES.     

Simulation of Gas-Dynamic and Thermal Processes in Vortex-Stabilized,Inductively Coupled Argon–Hydrogen Plasma

The flow of vortex-stabilized argon–hydrogen plasma in a radiofrequency induction (RFI) plasma torch has been investigated using modern methods of computational fluid dynamics. Optimal values of the torch power and energy release in plasma have been found at various argon to hydrogen ratios in the plasma gas mixture. The heat and kinetic fields determined by calculation for a plasma-chemical reactor can be of use in designing an RFI plasma torch in part concerning the determination of the optimum zone for feeding the reactants to the reactor.     

Electromagnetic Properties of a New Microwave Plasma Torch with Double Resonance Configuration

In order to obtain a stable plasma and improve the performance of the torch for atomic emission spectroscopy(AES), the structure of microwave plasma torch(MPT) was analyzed. The transmission and distribution characteristics of the electromagnetic field of the torch configuration with two or three concentric tubes, as well as the metal spacer between inner and intermediate tubes with different depths were simulated with electromagnetic simulation software and verified by experiments. The results indicate that the inner tube of MPT plays an important role in strengthening the electric field intensity at the opening end of the MPT and redistributing the electromagnetic field in the whole torch by forming a double resonance configuration, and contributes to enhancing the macroscopic stability and the self-sustainment of the plasma. The stability of the plasma is proved to be excellent when the metal spacer between the inner and intermediate tubes is located at a place 20—30 mm away from the top opening of the torch. A proper location of the spacer can also avoid the formation of a static filament plasma or a rotating plasma rooted from the outer wall of the inner tube. With the help of morphological analysis, the underlying reason why MPT possesses a great tolerance to wet aerosols and air introduction was clearly made, that is, the formation region of the plasma formed with MPT is apparently separated from the reaction zone of it.     

Modified helium pulse-operated microwave induced plasma for spectrochemical analysis of liquid samples

To minimize problems caused by sample introduction into helium pulse operated microwave-induced plasma (He-pulsed-MIP), a simple plasma torch was developed. This torch is constructed from commonly available components with an absolute minimum of machining. In this torch, plasma is kept operating by partially isolating it from the rest of the plasma (within the plasma chamber). This auxiliary plasma is by-passed during sample or solvent injection and is therefore not affected. The design of this discharge chamber was thoroughly examined and each parameter affecting its analytical performance was evaluated. Measurements reported include effect of helium flow rate, discharge tube position and microwave power on analytical performance. Analytical calibration curves and detection limits data are shown for Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Ni and Zn. Plasma excitation temperature was determined using iron and copper as thermometric species. Finally, the present technique was applied to the analysis of real biological samples (liver, brain, heart, bone, kidney, tests, serum, spleen and muscles of white albino rats). The results were compared with those obtained using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy.     

A versatile new torch for inductively coupled plasma spectrometry

A modified torch for optical emission spectrometry with an inductively coupled plasma source is described. The demountable torch incorporates a flared intermediate tube, a capillary injector tube and interchangeable jets at the gas inlets. The optimised performance of the torch is compared with that of a conventional torch. The new torch can be operated over a wide range of gas flows and shows considerable promise in work with an argon-cooled plasma. The ability to operate at high or low gas flow rates, and the possibility of interchanging tubes and jets easily illustrate the versatility of the new design.     

Modified helium pulse-operated microwave induced plasma for spectrochemical analysis of liquid samples

To minimize problems caused by sample introduction into helium pulse operated microwave-induced plasma (He-pulsed-MIP), a simple plasma torch was developed. This torch is constructed from commonly available components with an absolute minimum of machining. In this torch, plasma is kept operating by partially isolating it from the rest of the plasma (within the plasma chamber). This auxiliary plasma is by-passed during sample or solvent injection and is therefore not affected. The design of this discharge chamber was thoroughly examined and each parameter affecting its analytical performance was evaluated. Measurements reported include effect of helium flow rate, discharge tube position and microwave power on analytical performance. Analytical calibration curves and detection limits data are shown for Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Ni and Zn. Plasma excitation temperature was determined using iron and copper as thermometric species. Finally, the present technique was applied to the analysis of real biological samples (liver, brain, heart, bone, kidney, tests, serum, spleen and muscles of white albino rats). The results were compared with those obtained using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. Received: 3 February 2000 / Revised: 16 May 2000 / Accepted: 22 May 2000     

An improved microwave plasma torch for atomic spectrometry

The analytical performance of a microwave plasma torch was improved through mechanical alterations. Several problems reported in earlier designs were addressed: the ignition and stabilization of a helium plasma in the MPT was difficult; high powers were required to both ignite and operate the plasma; otherwise, the plasma would erratically change from an annular to a filament type discharge. In the new torch, the helium discharge was stabilized by replacing the copper central tube with one made of quartz. In addition, air entrainment was alleviated through use of a sheathing gas. This modification simplified the background mass spectrum and raised the effective ionization temperature of the discharge. A detailed schematic diagram of the new microwave plasma torch is presented.     

Untersuchungen der Temperaturbedingungen in der Graphitlaserdampfwolke

With the goal to obtain information on the evaporation and atomization conditions in the vapour cloud produced by laser impact on graphite (‘graphite laser torch’) the authors determined the spatial distribution of the gas temperature of the atomic vapour and the vibrational temperature of the CN molecules. The gas temperature was determined as the colour temperature of the ‘torch’. The applied method permits measurements not only in the vicinity of the target but also at a large distance from both the target and the axis of the torch. The distribution of the ‘effective’ temperature along the axis of symmetry of the torch and the local temperature distribution along the radius were used to derive the mean temperature of the atomic vapour. It was found that about 70% of the material ejected from the crater has a mean temperature of about 3400 K in the region between the target and the analytical zone. In order to determine the local vibrational temperature of the CN molecules in the analytical zone, the authors modulated the radiation from the torch electromechanically so that the radiation from the torch was recorded during the same period of time as analytical signals. The vibrational temperature of the CN molecules in the analytical region was found to be in a range between 3100 and 3600 K.     

Electromagnetic acceleration of the Belousov-Zhabotinski reaction

Acceleration of the Belousov-Zhabotinski (BZ) reaction, in stirred homogeneous solutions, by low frequency electromagnetic (EM) fields has provided new insights into EM interaction mechanisms. The acceleration varies inversely with the basal reaction rate, indicating that the applied magnetic field and the intrinsic chemical driving forces affect the same electron transfer reaction. The amplitude and frequency dependence of the EM field interactions are also consistent with interaction during electron transfer. A mechanism based on interaction with moving electrons offers a way of explaining the ability of EM fields to stimulate gene expression, in particular the stress response, since electrons have been shown to move in DNA.     

Thresholds for electromagnetic field-induced hypoxia protection: evidence for a primary electric field effect

We have recently reported that weak electromagnetic (EM) field exposure of chick embryos induces a response that can be used to protect against subsequent hypoxic insult. This work is continued here with an exposure response study using 20-min exposure to 60 Hz magnetic fields over a range of 2-10 microT. Once again, the biomarker used was induction of hypoxia protection. A sigmoidal response curve was found, with exposures to magnetic field strengths > or = 4 microT inducing maximum hypoxia protection (68% survival). We also attempted to determine whether the magnetic or induced electric component of the EM field was responsible for the observed protection. This was accomplished by making measurements with two different orientations of the magnetic fields (perpendicular and parallel to the major axis of the egg). Owing to the configuration of the embryo in the egg, the induced electric field at the embryo was lower when the magnetic field was parallel to the major axis even though the magnetic field strength was the same for each orientation. Exposure of the embryos to the parallel orientation resulted in a reduced protective response. An exposure-response curve generated for this orientation of the field also showed a more "drawn-out" appearance, consistent with the observed distribution of embryo positions within the egg. Our results suggest that the induced electric, not the applied magnetic field, plays a primary role in the protective effect observed in this chick embryo model.     

Effect of Anode Arc Root Position on the Behavior of the DC Non-transferred Plasma Jet at Field Free Region

A special bi-anode plasma torch that can change the anode arc root position without changing working gas flow rate has been developed to investigate the effect of anode arc root position on the behavior of the plasma jet. It has two nozzle-shaped anodes at different axial distances from the cathode tip. The arc root can be formed at anodes either close to the cathode tip (anode I) or far away from it (anode II) to obtain different attachment positions and arc voltages. The characteristics of pure argon plasma jets operated in different anode modes were measured in the field free region by using an emalpy probe, and the thermal efficiency of the torch was determined by measuring the temperature differences between cooling water flowing in and out of the torch. The results show that compared with the normal arc operated in anode I mode, the elongated arc operated in anode II mode significantly reduced the plasma energy loss inside the torch, resulting in a higher temperature and a higher velocity of the plasma jet in the field free region.     

Parametric study of the decomposition of NH3 for an induction plasma reactor design

The present paper reports a study of the gas mixing and chemical transformation in an induction plasma reactor under atmospheric pressure, and its dependence on the plasma operating conditions. For this purpose, the thermal dissociation of ammonia into nitrogen and hydrogen was chosen because of the relative simplicity of the reactions involved and its use in a number of studies on plasma synthesis of ultrafine nitride ceramic powders using ammonia as nitriding agent. A hot-wall reactor configuration is investigated in which ammonia is injected radially through multiple orifices into the gases at the exit nozzle of an induction plasma torch. Concentration mapping in the mixing zone was carried out, using a VG-Micromass-PC 300 D quadrupole mass spectrometer, for different plasma power levels, in the range 13–24 kW. A 3-point injection mode is used with the injection ports oriented upstream at 45° to the torch axis. This allows uniform mixing of the injected gas in the plasma jet. A systematic study of the effects of plate power and ammonia and plasma gas flow rates on the mixing and dissociation of NH₃ in the reactor is reported. The results are analyzed and discussed from the viewpoint of their use for optimizing the design of induction plasma reactors, to he applied to the vapor-phase synthesis of ultrafine silicon nitride powders.     

Magnetic-Field-Manipulated Growth of Flow-Driven Precipitate Membrane Tubes

Chemobrionics is an emerging scientific field focusing on the coupling of chemical reactions and different forms of motion, that is, transport processes. Numerous phenomena appearing in various gradient fields, for example, pH, concentration, temperature, and so on, are thoroughly investigated to mimic living systems in which spatial separation plays a major role in proper functioning. In this context, chemical garden experiments have received increased attention because they inherently involve membrane formation and various transport processes. In this work, a noninvasive external magnetic field was applied to gain control over the directionality of membrane structures obtained by injecting one reactant solution into the other in a three-dimensional domain. The geometry of the resulted patterns was quantitatively characterized as a function of the injection rate and the magnitude of magnetic induction. The magnetic field was proven to influence the microstructure of precipitate tubes by diminishing spatial defects.