Transformations of n-Hexane and Cyclohexane by Barrier Discharge Processing in Inert Gases

The conversion of n-hexane and cyclohexane by barrier discharge treatment in He, Ar, Kr, or Xe was studied. The action of a barrier discharge on n-hexane vapor primarily results in the formation of branched-chain hydrocarbons (93.48 wt %). Bicyclohexyl is the main reaction product of cyclohexane; alkyl and alkenyl substituted cyclohexanes (48.12 wt %) are also formed. Using n-hexane as an example, it was demonstrated that the energy consumption increased from 1.30 to 2.17 keV per hydrocarbon molecule converted in the following order of inert gases: He, Ar, Kr, and Xe.