Abstract: A nitric oxide generator generates nitric oxide from a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen such as air treated by a pulsating electrical discharge. The desired concentration of nitric oxide is obtained by controlling at least one of a frequency of the pulsating electrical discharge and duration of each electrical discharge pulse.

Abstract: There is provided a substrate processing apparatus that includes a process chamber in which at least one substrate is processed; a gas supplier configured to supply a gas; and a buffer structure. The buffer structure includes at least two plasma generation regions in which gas is converted into plasma by a pair of electrodes connected to a high-frequency power supply and an electrode to be grounded, a first gas supply port that supplies a gas generated in a first plasma generation region among the at least two plasma generation regions, and a second gas supply port that supplies a gas generated in a second plasma generation region among the at least two plasma generation regions.

Abstract: The present invention provides various passive electronic components comprising a layer of coated particles, and methods for producing and using the same. Some of the passive electronic components of the invention include, but are not limited to conductors, resistors, current collectors, capacitors, piezoelectronic devices, inductors and transformers. The present invention also provides energy storage devices and electrode layers for such energy storage devices having passive, electrically-conductive particles coated with one or more thin film materials.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes systems and methods to provide electrode cooling for material surface treatment systems. A cooling fluid is employed to cool electrodes with a high voltage applied. For example, a conduit conveys a cooling fluid through the electrode, as the conduit also provides electrification for the electrode by being connected to an electrical power source. Further, cooling is implemented by use of a voltage isolator disposed between the conduit and a reservoir, with the voltage isolator providing a pathway to a reference voltage for residual electric charge from the cooling fluid passing through the voltage isolator.

Abstract: An embodiment provides a method for cleaning a surface, including: encapsulating a cleaning composition in a polymer material to form a compound, wherein the polymer material surrounds the cleaning composition; placing the compound in a location adjacent to the surface, wherein the location adjacent to the surface is a volume separated from an outer volume; dissolving the polymer material at a pH above a target value above the polymer material pH dissolution point, wherein the dissolving releases the cleaning composition; and cleaning the surface using the released cleaning composition. Other aspects are described and claimed.

Abstract: An ozone replenishment system including a housing assembly, an electrolysis assembly, a power assembly, and an ozone assembly is disclosed herein. The housing assembly includes a hollow tower. The power assembly includes a battery. The electrolysis assembly includes a reservoir filled with an electrolyte. The electrolysis assembly also includes an anode electrode a cathode electrode disposed into the reservoir. The anode electrode and the cathode electrode are connected to the battery. The electrolysis assembly produces oxygen and dihydrogen. The oxygen is captured by the hollow tower. The ozone assembly includes a fan that allows the oxygen to cross the hollow tower. The ozone assembly further includes a plurality of ultraviolet lights to convert the oxygen into ozone. The ozone is replenishment into the atmosphere.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing material feedstock into a plasma of a plasma torch includes a material feeding device having an input end and an output end. The output end of the material feeding device extends at least partially around the periphery of a plasma generated near the output end of the plasma torch. The material feeding device is oriented at an angle with respect to a central axis of the plasma torch.

Abstract: Provided a method of sterilization by ultraviolet irradiation whereby effects on the human body can be mitigated and an odor that arises after ultraviolet irradiation can be controlled. The sterilization method includes: a step (a) of irradiating a skin of a hand or arm with ultraviolet having a wavelength of 200 nm or more and 230 nm or less; and a step (b) of applying a topical skin preparation, cosmetic, or aqueous solution containing at least one amino acid or amino acid derivative selected from an amino acid group A to a region of the skin irradiated with the ultraviolet. The amino acid group A includes valine, leucine, isoleucine, glutamic acid, arginine, serine, aspartic acid, proline, and glycine.

Abstract: A process for providing a sterilized dental article, at least a portion of the surface of which exhibiting a contact angle of less than 45°. The process includes the subsequent steps of a) providing a dental article and b) subjecting the initial dental article to a hydrogen peroxide plasma treatment. It is characterized in that the hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization treatment of step b) is carried out in the presence of a carbon-containing compound, which during treatment is converted to form a carboxylic group attached to the surface of the dental article.

Abstract: Implementations of the disclosed subject matter provide a device of a mobile robot may include a motor to drive a drive system to move the mobile robot in an area, and a light source to output ultraviolet light. The device may include at least one first sensor to determine at least one of an orientation of the mobile robot, a location of the mobile robot, and/or when the light source is within a predetermined distance of an object in the area. The device may include a controller, communicatively coupled to the drive system, the light source, and the at least one first sensor to control the drive system so as to stop or move the mobile robot before the light source is within the predetermined distance of the object based on at least a signal received from the at least one first sensor.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to a batch processing chamber that is adapted to simultaneously cure multiple substrates at one time. The batch processing chamber includes multiple processing sub-regions that are each independently temperature controlled. The batch processing chamber may include a first and a second sub-processing region that are each serviced by a substrate transport device external to the batch processing chamber. In addition, a slotted cover mounted on the loading opening of the batch curing chamber reduces the effect of ambient air entering the chamber during loading and unloading.

Abstract: A system includes a plasma chamber coupled to a power source, and an impedance matching network coupled between the power source and the plasma chamber, wherein the impedance matching network comprises an L-shaped network and a first adjustable inductor coupled between an input of the plasma chamber and ground, and wherein the impedance matching network is configured such that, in a predetermined frequency range, an impedance of the impedance matching network and the plasma chamber is substantially equal to an impedance of the power source.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sterilizing an article. The method comprises placing an article in a sterilization container, generating oxidizing plasma radicals at atmospheric pressure, and providing the oxidizing plasma radicals to the sterilization container to sterilize the article in the container.

Abstract: An apparatus treats harmful particulate matter generated through combustion. The apparatus includes a concentrator concentrating the harmful particulate matter and a plasma generator burning the concentrated harmful particulate matter. Thereby, the harmful particulate matter can be efficiently removed.

Abstract: The present invention, aiming at providing an exhaust gas treating system capable of increasing the exhaust gas treating volume, through increase of the diameter of the reaction tube, stabilizing the state of generation of plasma without requiring any water membrane, and improving the harmful matters removing performance by extending the plasma length, comprises a reaction tube 1 for introducing exhaust gas G, an upper electrode 2 disposed in the air on the top side of the reaction tube 1, a lower electrode 3 disposed on the bottom side of the reaction tube 1, and a spray nozzle 4 for spraying an electrolytic solution D between the upper electrode 2 and the lower electrode 3, so as to form a path of electric current between the electrodes 2, 3 and generate plasma P in the reaction tube 1, by spraying an electrolytic solution D between the upper electrode 2 and the lower electrode 3.

Abstract: An apparatus, system and method for reducing the growth of microbial contamination, such as bacteria, virus, mold and biofilms, in an air-handling unit. The apparatus includes a mounting member configured to couple with a housing of an air-handling unit and a turbine coupled with the mounting member and configured to produce energy when positioned in an air flow path through the air-handling unit. The apparatus also includes an electrode assembly including an anode configured to be placed in a condensate pan and receive energy from the turbine. The anode produces agents that reduce the growth of microbial contamination when energized.

Abstract: In various embodiments of the invention, a cargo container can be monitored at appropriate time intervals to determine that no controlled substances have been shipped with the cargo in the container. The monitoring utilizes reactive species produced from an atmospheric analyzer to ionize analyte molecules present in the container which are then analyzed by an appropriate spectroscopy system. In an embodiment of the invention, a sorbent surface can be used to absorb, adsorb or condense analyte molecules within the container whereafter the sorbent surface can be interrogated with the reactive species to generate analyte species characteristic of the contents of the container.

Abstract: A controlled zone gasification reactor for a plasma assisted gasification reaction system is disclosed for converting fuel, such as, but not limited to, biomass, to syngas to replace petroleum based fuels used in power generation. The system may be a modular system housed within a frame facilitating relatively easy transportation. The system may include a reactor vessel with distinct reaction zones that facilitate greater control and a more efficient system. The system may include a syngas heater channeling syngas collected downstream of the carbon layer support and to the pyrolysis reaction zone. The system may also include a syngas separation chamber configured to produce clean syngas, thereby requiring less filtering. The system may further include an agitator drive assembly that prevents formation of burn channels with in the fuel.

Abstract: A controlled zone gasification reactor with an agitator drive assembly for a plasma assisted gasification reaction system is disclosed for converting fuel, such as, but not limited to, biomass, to syngas to replace petroleum based fuels used in power generation. The agitator drive assembly that prevents formation of burn channels with in the fuel. The agitator drive assembly may include a syngas separation chamber configured to produce clean syngas, thereby requiring less filtering. The syngas separation chamber may feed syngas downstream to a syngas heater in a pyrolysis reaction zone in the reactor vessel.

Abstract: Devices and corresponding methods of use are described herein which may comprise an enclosing structure defining a closed loop flow path and a system generating a plasma at a plasma site, e.g. laser produced plasma system, where the plasma site may be in fluid communication with the flow path. For the device, a gas may be disposed in the enclosing structure which may include an ion-stopping buffer gas and/or an etchant. A pump may be provided to force the gas through the closed loop flow path. One or more heat exchangers removing heat from gas flowing in the flow path may be provided. In some arrangements, a filter may be used to remove at least a portion of a target species from gas flowing in the flow path.

Abstract: A germicidal system and method for deactivating pathogens on the surface of a bodily extremity protected by a prophylactic covering substantially opaque to UV-C radiation. The device includes an enclosure having one or more openings through which the extremity can be inserted. The enclosure contains a radiation source configured to produce germicidal radiation having a wavelength of about 253.7 nm. The openings are configured relative to the radiation source such that the inserted extremity is in close proximity to the radiation source. The prophylactic covered extremity is preferably a gloved hand thereby sanitizing the surface of the glove. The extremity inserted is preferably exposed for a predetermined period of time to ensure a desired level of sanitization. Optionally, the device can include an orientation detector to determine the position of the user's hand and the spread of the user's fingers, and a surface detector to determine whether the user's hand is covered by a glove.

Abstract: Method and means for modifying gases or fumes fed through a filter (1), from its inlet side to its outlet side, submitted to an electric plasma having its maximum plasma density (d) at the filter's inlet side. The gases or fumes may comprise NOx, the filter being constituted by a catalytic material fit for modifying NOx. The filter also may be polluted with e.g. a soot deposit, precipitated on the filter's surface and/or within the filter's interior. The means may comprise a first electrode system (2) at the filter's inlet side and a second electrode system (3) at the filter's outlet side, connected to a high voltage (V1). Preferably the first electrode system comprises two or more groups of interlacing electrodes, each connected to a high voltage source (V1, V2, V3).

Abstract: A pumping system comprising at least one pump unit (2) with a vacuum pump casing in which there are multiple pumping stages that includes at least one pumped gas treatment system is provided. The pumped gas treatment system compromises at least one plasma source located inside the vacuum pump casing of the pump unit, to generate a plasma that at least partially decomposes certain gases passing through the pump unit. This reduces the size of the pumped gas treatment system and improves its efficiency so that a gas pumping and treatment system can be created that is sufficiently small as to allow it to be placed in close proximity to the process chambers.

Abstract: A lamp assembly comprising one or more lamp clusters. Each lamp cluster comprises one or more electrodeless UV lamps which are excited by microwaves emitted from a microwave generator. The microwave generator and power supply are enclosed within a housing that is integral with the lamp clusters. The lamp clusters are wholly surrounded by a waveguide. The waveguide, comprising a flange and a distal end cap connected by a mesh, forms an enclosure. The waveguide is essentially UV transparent to allow UV light to pass through but effectively opaque to microwaves in order to substantially contain the microwaves within the waveguide enclosure.

Abstract: A liquid treatment apparatus and a liquid treatment method are provided. The liquid treatment apparatus includes a nozzle configured to cause cavitation bubbles to be generated in liquid to be treated, and a discharger which generates discharge plasma in a region where the cavitation bubbles are generated. The liquid treatment method includes causing the cavitation bubbles to be generated in the liquid to be treated, and generating discharge plasma in the region where the cavitation bubbles are generated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for sterilizing a contaminated object. The process comprises the insertion of the object in a sterilization chamber having at least one discharge tube in communication therewith. Then, the tube is fed with a liquid or gas stream, and the stream is subjected to an electric field so as to generate a plasma, thereby exposing the contaminated object to the action of sterilizing species that are present in a post-discharge zone or in a zone of excitation of the plasma. A device for carrying such a process is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for irradiating an absorbing liquid, for example waste water to be disinfected, in a throughflow. Said device comprises at least two radiator units having one cylindrical UV radiation source and three concentric sheaths. A cooling medium for carrying off heat from the UV radiation source flows in a hollow space between the inner and the center sheath. The inventive device allows to use high-performance UV radiation sources and to evenly irradiate the zones of irradiation and prevents floating particles from settling down on the radiator units.

Abstract: An ammonia and fertilizer production process is based on partial oxidation of fossil fuel, which co-produces polycarbonsuboxide. The four step process is low-cost and low-carbon-dioxide emission. It comprises the steps of reacting fossil fuel with oxygen in air and steam in an electric discharge plasma to produce a gas exit stream of polycarbonsuboxide, hydrogen with associated nitrogen (110); cooling the gas stream to condense and separate the polycarbonsuboxide as a solid polymer (120); compressing the gas stream to pressures for synthesis of ammonia (140); and, converting the gas stream to ammonia by employing a catalytic converter (150). Optional steps involve gas cleanup, which include removal of contaminants from the gas stream and adding hydrogen or nitrogen to the gas stream to adjust the ratio of hydrogen to nitrogen to three to one, respectively, prior to converting the gas stream to ammonia (130).

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for sterilizing articles using an ozone-containing gas, where condensation of water from the sterilization atmosphere during the sterilization process is substantially prevented. The inventive sterilization method includes providing a sterilization chamber and placing an article into the sterilization chamber. The sterilization chamber is sealed prior to equalizing the temperature of the article and the atmosphere in the sterilization chamber. A vacuum is applied to achieve a preselected vacuum pressure in the sterilization chamber. Once the vacuum pressure is set, water vapour is supplied to the sterilization chamber. Ozone-containing gas is then supplied to the sterilization chamber and the sterilization chamber remains sealed for a preselected treatment period, where the sterilization chamber remains sealed throughout the whole process. Finally, vacuum in the sterilization chamber is released.

Abstract: A cooking device includes an inner case, a cooking chamber within the inner case and an odor removal unit configured to generate a plasma discharge for removing odor-producing materials from the cooking chamber.

Abstract: A plasma reactor including a plasma generating electrode which includes a plurality of unit electrodes hierarchically layered at specific intervals, a casing in which the plasma generating electrode is disposed, and a power supply which applies a voltage to the unit electrodes, generating plasma in a space formed between the unit electrodes by applying a pulse voltage between the unit electrodes from the power supply, and capable of processing exhaust gas introduced into the space through reaction, the plasma reactor further including a light-transmitting section formed in the casing for externally detecting light emitted by the plasma, light detection means capable of detecting light emitted by the plasma through the light-transmitting section, and control means for controlling electric energy applied to the unit electrodes depending on intensity of light detected by the light detection means.

Abstract: A method and device for sterilizing containers in which a plasma treatment is executed through excitation of an electromagnetic oscillation so that the plasma is excited in a vacuum in the vicinity of the container regions to be sterilized. Between arrival and discharge, the container regions to be sterilized are moved closer to the oscillation-generating device in the chamber, with continuous movement of the container and/or of the oscillation-generating device for one or more predetermined time intervals in such a way that a plasma is excited in these regions inside and/or outside the container. The chamber is provided with a transport apparatus inside it, which produces an essentially rotating motion of the container during the transport from the arrival to the discharge in the chamber.

Abstract: This invention provides methods of retentate chromatography for resolving analytes in a sample. The methods involve adsorbing the analytes to a substrate under a plurality of different selectivity conditions, and detecting the analytes retained on the substrate by desorption spectrometry. The methods are useful in biology and medicine, including clinical diagnostics and drug discovery.

Abstract: A radiation source module comprising a support member, a radiation source assembly connected to the support member, the radiation source assembly comprising at least one elongate radiation source having a source longitudinal axis and a module-to-surface seal disposed on a first elongate surface of the module, the first elongate surface comprising a first longitudinal axis transverse to the source longitudinal axis, the seal operable to provide a substantially fluid tight seal between the first surface and a second surface which is adjacent to the first surface. A fluid treatment system employ the radiation source module is also described.

Abstract: A ClF3 gas generation system is provided with supply sources of chlorine (3) (for example a cylinder of compressed chlorine) and fluorine (4) (for example a fluorine generator) connected into a gas reaction chamber (2) enabling generation of ClF3 gas. The reaction chamber has a valved outlet (C) for the supply of the ClF3 gas to a process chamber for immediate local use.

Abstract: A sterilization system and method applies low frequency power to a plasma within a vacuum chamber to remove gas or vapor species from an article. The sterilization system includes a switching module adapted to pulsate the low frequency power applied to the plasma and a low frequency power feedback control system for controllably adjusting the low frequency power applied to the plasma. A power monitor is adapted to produce a first signal indicative of the low frequency power applied to the plasma within the vacuum chamber. A power control module is adapted to produce a second signal in response to the first signal from the power monitor, and a power controller is adapted to adjust, in response to the second signal, the low frequency power applied to the plasma to maintain a substantially stable average low frequency power applied to the plasma while the article is being processed.

Abstract: A sterilization system applies power to a plasma within a chamber to remove gas or vapor species from an article. The sterilization system includes a power feedback control system for controlling the power applied to the plasma. The power feedback control system includes a current monitor adapted to produce a first signal indicative of a current applied to the plasma within the chamber. The power feedback control system further includes a voltage monitor adapted to produce a second signal indicative of a voltage applied to the plasma within the chamber. The power feedback control system further includes a power control module comprising a programmable digital signal processor. The digital signal processor is adapted to receive and process the first signal and the second signal by multiplying the current and the voltage and producing a third signal indicative of the product of the current and the voltage.

Abstract: It is often desirable to operate ultraviolet (UV) water treatment systems at high fluid velocities; such as, when low UV doses are required, the UV transmittance of the water being treated is high, or when a high intensity radiation source is used. The operation of an open channel UV fluid treatment system at high fluid velocity causes a disproportionate amount of water to pass through the relatively low intensity region above the top lamp. This results in non-uniform UV dose delivery and poor reactor performance. In one embodiment of the invention, by elevating the inlet to the irradiation zone of the fluid treatment system with respect to the outlet, the amount of water that passes above the top lamp can be minimized, improving overall system performance. The means of elevation can consist of a step or slope in the channel, or a combination of both. Depending on the magnitude of elevation, an increase in maximum velocity of approximately two times can be obtained.

Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for use in a fluid treatment system comprising a radiation source assembly, the cleaning apparatus comprising: at least one cleaning sleeve (300) in sliding engagement with the exterior of the radiation source assembly (150); a cleaning chamber (310) disposed in the at least one cleaning sleeve in contact with a portion of the exterior of the radiation source assembly (150) and for being supplied with a cleaning solution, the cleaning chamber comprising an opening (370) to an exterior of the cleaning sleeve; a pressure equalization member (355) disposed in the opening to provide a seal between the opening and the exterior of the cleaning sleeve, the pressure equalization member being movable in response to a pressure gradient thereacross; and drive means to translate the at least one cleaning sleeve along the exterior of the radiation source assembly. A fluid treatment device comprise the cleaning apparatus is also described.

Abstract: An apparatus for purifying air comprising two electrodes having a dielectric material such as glass extending therebetween. The dielectric material is air permeable, for example, in the form of a bed of discrete particles such as glass beads. The electrodes are also air permeable, allowing the air to flow through the electrodes and dielectric. Ozone is generated by discharge at points of contact of the dielectric particles. Airflow through the device is improved, allowing greater cooling, and higher volumes of airflow but at lower concentrations of ozone production than with prior art devices, thus reducing toxicity.

Abstract: An insulating film for semiconductors which has excellent adhesion to films formed by CVD and is useful as a dielectric film in semiconductor devices and the like is provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides a sterilization system that includes a low frequency power feedback control system for controllably adjusting a power applied to a low frequency plasma within a vacuum chamber of the sterilization system to remove gas or vapor species from the article. The power has a frequency of from 0 to approximately 200 kHz. The low frequency power feedback control system includes a power monitor adapted to produce a first signal indicative of the power applied to the low frequency plasma within the vacuum chamber. The low frequency power feedback control system further includes a power control module adapted to produce a second signal in response to the first signal from the power monitor, and a power controller adapted to adjust, in response to the second signal, the power applied to the low frequency plasma to maintain a substantially stable average power applied to the low frequency plasma while the article is being processed.

Abstract: An ultraviolet area sterilizer (UVAS) is mobile or stationary. The UVAS is positioned in a room, such an operating room or intensive care unit. Motion detectors sense movement, to assure that personnel have evacuated the space to be sterilized. Subsequently, UV-C generators, such mercury bulbs, generate UV-C from multiple locations within the room or other enclosed space. Multiple UV-C sensors scan the room, and determine the area reflecting the lowest level of UV-C back to the sensors. The device calculates the time required to obtain a bactericidal dose of UV-C reflected back to the sensors. Once an effective bactericidal dose has been reflected to all the sensors, the unit notifies the operator and shuts down.

Abstract: A sterilization system and method applies low frequency power to a plasma within a vacuum chamber to remove gas or vapor species from an article. The sterilization system includes a switching module adapted to pulsate the low frequency power applied to the plasma and a low frequency power feedback control system for controllably adjusting the low frequency power applied to the plasma. A power monitor is adapted to produce a first signal indicative of the low frequency power applied to the plasma within the vacuum chamber. A power control module is adapted to produce a second signal in response to the first signal from the power monitor, and a power controller is adapted to adjust, in response to the second signal, the low frequency power applied to the plasma to maintain a substantially stable average low frequency power applied to the plasma while the article is being processed.

Abstract: The air cleaner comprises an air cleaner body, an air passage, a fan for forming air flow flowing in the air passage and a filter to which pollutant included in the air. The air cleaner body has fitting parts. When the turned angle of the grille with the body is small, a turning arm of the grille can be inserted or detached into/from the space between the fitting parts when the turned angle of the grille with the body is large, the grille is temporarily held in the air cleaner body by fitting the turning arm to the fitting parts. Further a photocatalytic holder containing a photocatalytic substance is provided in the air cleaner. A light emitting diode (LED) is provided for radiating light on the photocatalytic substance. Illumination of the LED is controlled in accordance with an actual voltage and the rated voltage of a power source.

Abstract: A device for generating a plasma includes an enclosed chamber and an antenna positioned adjacent the wall of the chamber. A ceramic shield is mounted on the wall, with the antenna located between the wall and the ceramic shield. There is also a barrier that is mounted on the wall with the ceramic shield being between the barrier and the antenna element. An alternating voltage source is provided to energize the antenna element to generate a plasma in the chamber. In operation, the ceramic shield isolates the antenna from the plasma in the chamber, and the barrier prevents the deposition of material components from the plasma on the ceramic shield.

Abstract: A process and equipment for plasma sterilization in which articles in a sterilizing chamber are taken through at least one combination sterilizing cycle. The articles to be sterilized may include the interior of a vessel or chamber. In that case, the vessel or chamber itself may serve as a sterilizing chamber and connects to the plasma generating chamber. Each combination sterilizing cycle includes a pulsed treatment with gaseous antimicrobial agent, removal of the gaseous antimicrobial agent, and a plasma treatment. The pulsed treatment includes one or more pulse-vacuum cycles, each pulse-vacuum cycle includes the steps of evacuating the sterilizing chamber and exposing the article to the gaseous antimicrobial agent with a predetermined pressure profile during a predetermined time. The gaseous antimicrobial agent is preferably carried in a gas mixture with a nonreactive carrier gas. In one embodiment, the predetermined pressure is pulsed. In another embodiment, it is ramped.

Abstract: A method, and its associated equipment, for producing synthetic gas by means of an electric arc-activated, non-catalytic burner which utilizes up to three streams of product inputs. A primary spray is heated by an electric arc formed between two electrodes. A second spray is then injected and mixed with the heated primary fluid. The resulting high-temperature, high pressure mixture is combined with a tertiary spray, an oxidant. The end product thereby produced is a synthetic gas, which becomes immediately available for combustion in furnaces, reactors, and other processes in the chemical, petroleum, and metals fabrication industries. The invention overcomes the deficiencies of existing processes.

Abstract: The invention relates to a reactor for the treatment of wastewater solutions containing cyanide and other dissolved organic material, having an elongated tube having an entrance (28) and an exit (32), and an energy source (22) for the tube, preferably positioned adjacent the exit. The energy source generates intense energy such that a cyanide/organic material-containing solution can be treated by passing it through the tube to expose it to said energy so that the solution absorbs sufficient energy from the energy source to degrade the cyanide and/or dissolved organic material contained therein. The source of intense energy is preferably a plasma, e.g. a plasma generated by a plasma torch or a DC electric arc. The invention also relates to a process of treatment of such a wastewater solution by passing it through such a reactor.

Abstract: A method of treating industrial gases to remove contaminants is disclosed. Ions are generated in stream of injectable gas. These ions are propelled through the contaminated gas as it flows through a collection unit. An electric field is applied to the contaminated gas. The field causes the ions to move through the contaminated gases, producing electrical charges on the contaminants. The electrically charged contaminants are then collected at one side of the electric field. The injectable gas is selected to produce ions which will produce reactions with particular contaminants. The process is thus capable of removing particular contaminants. The process does not depend on diffusion as a transport mechanism and is therefore suitable for removing contaminants which exist in very low concentrations.