Abstract: A grounded electrode and a high-voltage applying electrode, each obtained by covering a metal electrode with a dielectric are housed at least within a reactor apparatus. A rare gas can be introduced in the apparatus by way of a gas delivery tube, and a monomer gas can be admitted in the apparatus by way of a gas delivery tube. An additional gas may also be introduced in the apparatus by way of a gas delivery tube. The employed gases may be discharged from within the reactor by way of a discharge tube. Powders are charged in the apparatus with a rare gas, monomer gas, or combination thereof and, optionally, additional gases may be included, the gas components being selected based upon what type of electrical power is to be treated. Powers ape supplied to the electrodes to induce atmospheric-pressure plasma reactions, thereby modifying or enhancing the characteristics of the powders.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for the treatment of a powder by use of a plasma reactor under atmospheric pressure, comprising the steps of providing a reaction chamber having first and second electrodes covered with a dielectric, an upper gas exhaust means and a lower gas inlet means, feeding a fluidizing gas comprising a rare gas, a monomer gas or a mixture thereof through said gas inlet means into said chamber to agitate a powder to be treated in said chamber, concurrently removing said gas from said chamber through said gas exhaust means; and generating a glow plasma under atmospheric pressure in said chamber by applying a voltage to said first electrode and grounding said second electrode whereby said powder is provided with an anticorrosive surface treatment.