US 2016.

0030912A1
(19) United States
(12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2016/0030912 A1
Mango (43) Pub. Date: Feb. 4, 2016
(54) GENERATOR DEVICE OF COLD PLASMA Publication Classification
AND RELATED METHOD FOR PRODUCING
CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES (51) Int. Cl.
BOI. I./08 (2006.01)
(71) Applicant: AMLIKA MERCANTILE PRIVATE H05H L/48 (2006.01)
LIMITED, Mumbai Maharashtra (IN) (52) U.S. Cl.
CPC ................ B01J 19/088 (2013.01); H05H I/48
(72) Inventor: Aldo Mango, Rocca d’Evandro (IT) (2013.01); B01J 2219/0837 (2013.01); B01.J.
2219/0809 (2013.01); B01J 2219/0869
(21) Appl. No.: 14/782,734 (2013.01); B01J 2219/0875 (2013.01); B01.J.
2219/0894 (2013.01)
(22) PCT Filed: Apr. 10, 2014 (57) ABSTRACT
(86). PCT No.: PCT/B2O14/060609 The present invention relates to a device for generating cold
plasma to be used in the process chemical industry, in par
S371 (c)(1), ticular for producing chemical Substances, above all acids
(2) Date: Oct. 6, 2015 Such as for example nitric acid and Sulphuric acid. The inven
tion also relates to reactors and plants involving said cold
(30) Foreign Application Priority Data plasma generator device and to corresponding chemical pro
cesses based thereupon. The device and the associated
Apr. 10, 2013 (IT) ......................... RM2O13AOOO212 method of the present invention allow producing with high
Apr. 10, 2013 (IT) ... ... RM2013AOOO214 efficiency several chemical Substances, in particular acids.
Apr. 10, 2013 (IT) ......................... RM2O13AOOO215 The invention also keeps the several advantages of using the
Apr. 10, 2013 (IT) ......................... RM2O13AOOO216 cold plasma technology, in particular the one of not requiring
Jun. 27, 2013 (IT) ......................... RM2O13AOOO374 catalysts and/or high reaction temperatures.
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US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

GENERATORDEVICE OF COLD PLASMA 0013 The device and the method of the invention are
AND RELATED METHOD FOR PRODUCING particularly advantageous in the application for producing
CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES nitric acid and Sulphuric acid.
0014. Other advantages, features and use modes of the
FIELD OF THE INVENTION present invention will result evident from the following
detailed description of some embodiments, shown by way of
0001. The present invention relates to a device for gener example and not with limitative purpose.
ating cold plasma to be used in the process chemical industry, 0015 The invention provides a cold plasma generator
in particular for producing chemical Substances, above all device, Suitable for use in a process, in particular for produc
acids such as for example nitric acid and Sulphuric acid. ing nitric or Sulphuric acid, which device comprises:
0002 The invention also relates to reactors and plants 0016 an outer electrode and an inner electrode,
including said cold plasma generator device and to corre arranged one surrounding the other one so as to define
sponding chemical processes based thereupon. between them a plasma generation region,
0017 wherein said inner and/or outer electrodes are
BACKGROUND connected or connectable to a power source so that, in
0003. The use of cold plasma for producing chemical sub use, a difference in electric potential is established at
said plasma generation region,
stances has different advantages with respect to the traditional 0018 wherein the inner and outer electrodes are rotat
methods. In particular, in case of the production of nitric acid able one with respect to the other,
according to the reaction: 0.019 wherein said outer electrode has an inlet port for
a gas which has to cross said plasma generation region
it is not necessary using catalysts, nor working at high tem and at least a recirculating outlet port of plasma gas
peratures and above all as raw material Ammonia is not used, which has crossed said plasma generation region;
but only simple ambient air or air enriched with oxygen with 0020 triggering means for triggering a discharge
various techniques, such as the molecular sieves or cryosepa between said outer and inner electrode, said triggering
ration or others, is used. means being connected, preferably fixed, to a revolving
electrode, of said two electrodes; and
0004. The known cold plasma generators are mainly con 0021 gas intaking means, apt to draw gas through said
stituted by two electrodes fed by a high tension or frequency plasma generation region, said gas intaking means being
electric generator, so that an electrical field is generated connected, preferably fixed, to a revolving electrode of
between the same electrodes. The field, in turn, ionizes and said two electrodes.
excites the gas molecules or atoms—typically air—existing 0022 Preferably, the inner electrode or both electrodes are
between the electrodes, thus generating a plasma gas. rotatable.
0005. However, the plasma generators known in the art 0023. In an embodiment example, the outer and inner elec
and the reactors in which they are inserted have some impor trodes are arranged so that the respective longitudinal axes are
tant limits. Such limits are mainly linked to the efficiency of Substantially parallel or coincident, the common direction of
the system for generating plasma which, due to its intrinsic said axes preferably corresponding also to that of an axis of
nature, takes place in a very restricted region between the relative rotation.
electrodes.
0024. The outer and inner electrodes can be arranged
0006. The just illustrated aspects strongly contain the use coaxially or eccentrically.
of the cold plasma technology in the chemical synthesis pro 0025. The outer and inner electrodes can have a substan
CCSSCS. tially cylindrical geometry.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
0026. Preferably, the inner electrode is shaft-shaped.
0027. In an advantageous configuration, the device com
0007. The technical problem placed and solved by the prises an intermediate Support of the inner electrode, which is
present invention is then to provide a device for generating apt to guarantee the electrical insulation between said two
cold plasma and a related method or process for producing a electrodes.
chemical Substance allowing to obviate the drawbacks men 0028 Preferably, the cross section area of said outer elec
tioned above with reference to the known art. trode is about 25 to 100 times greater than the cross section of
said inner electrode.
0008. The invention also provides a reactor and a chemical
plant incorporating said generator device. 0029 Preferably, said outer and inner electrodes, one or
0009. The above-mentioned technical problem is solved both of them, have a substantially circular section. In the latter
as illustrated in the independent claim 1. case, preferably the diameter of said outer electrode is about
5 to 10 times greater than the diameter of said inner electrode.
0010 Preferred features of the present invention are sub Still in case of circular section of the inner electrode, this has
ject of the depending claims. a diameter comprised in a range of about 20-200 mm.
0011. The device and the associated method of the present 0030 Preferably, said outer electrode and/or said inner
invention allow producing with high efficiency several electrode have a length equal to, or greater than, about 200
chemical Substances, in particular acids. The invention also .
keeps many advantages of using the cold plasma technology, 0031. In an advantageous configuration, said gas inlet port
in particular that of not requiring catalysts and/or high reac is arranged at an end, preferably at a base, of said outer
tion temperatures. electrode.
0012. The device and the method of the invention also 0032. Furthermore, preferably said at least a recirculating
allow low costs of implementation and operation. outlet port is arranged at a lateral wall or skirt of said outer
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

electrode. Advantageously, said at least a recirculating outlet 0048. The main body and/or said first electrode can have a
port defines an outlet area Substantially equal to, or greater Substantially cylindrical geometry.
than, the area of a cross section of said outer electrode. 0049 Preferably, the cross section area of said main body
0033. In a preferred configuration, the outer electrode has is about 25 to 100 times greater than the cross section of said
a plurality of recirculation outlet ports for the plasma gas, first electrode.
which ports are preferably arranged in a lateral wall or skirt of 0050 Preferably, said main body and said first electrode,
said outer electrode. one or both of them, have a substantially circular section. In
0034 Preferably, said outer electrode has an additional the latter case, preferably the diameter of said main body is
outlet port of plasma gas, arranged downstream of at least one about 5 to 10 times greater than the diameter of said electrode.
outlet recirculating port with respect to the flow of plasma 0051. The main body preferably has at least a liquid-inlet
gas. Preferably, said additional port is arranged at a lateral port, preferably arranged at a side wall or skirt thereof, the
wall or skirt of said outer electrode. arrangement being Such that said liquid-inlet port allows said
0035. In a preferred configuration, said triggering means main body to be partially immersed into the liquid electrode.
are fixed to a revolving electrode of said electrodes. 0.052 Advantageously, the liquid-inlet port and said at
0036 Preferably, said triggering means is based upon the least a recirculating outlet port are arranged at respective
point effect. portions of said main body Substantially orthogonal one to the
0037 Advantageously, the triggering means is Substan other one.
tially comb-shaped 0053 Preferably, the first electrode is rotatable and advan
0038 Preferably, said gas intaking means comprises a tageously shaft-shaped. In a preferred configuration, the first
rotor or impeller which is fixed to a revolving electrode of said electrode is fixed onto a rotatable shaft, the latter preferably
inner and outer electrodes, wherein said rotor or impeller is receive within said main body.
preferably made at least partially of a plastic material. 0054 Preferably, the first electrode is arranged substan
0.039 Advantageously, said gas intaking means comprises tially parallel to a free surface of said liquid electrode.
a rotor or impeller fixed to said inner electrode, wherein the 0055. The device can comprise gas intaking means, apt to
rotor or impeller preferably has a diameter comprised in a draw gas through said plasma generation region. Advanta
range of about 70-95%, more preferably of about 60-90%, of geously, it comprises a rotor or impeller, the latter being
an internal diameter of said outer electrode. preferably connected, more preferably fixed, to said first
0040. The invention also provides a cold plasma generator revolving electrode, wherein said rotor or impeller is prefer
device, Suitable for use in a process, in particular for produc ably made at least partially of a plastic material.
ing nitric or Sulphuric acid, which device comprises a first 0056. The gas intaking means can comprise a rotor or
electrode and a second electrode, arranged so as to define impeller, preferably a centrifugal rotor or impeller, arranged
between them a plasma generation region, which first and/or outside said main body.
second electrode are connected or connectable to a power 0057 The gas intaking means can comprise a rotor or
Source so that, in use, a difference in electric potential is impeller which has a diameter comprised in a range of about
established at said plasma generation region, which device 70-95%, more preferably of about 60-90%, of an internal
has an inlet port for a gas which has to cross said plasma diameter of said main body.
generation region and at least a recirculation port for the 0058. The device preferably comprises sliding electrical
plasma gas which has crossed said plasma generation region, contact means associated to said first electrode.
the device being configured so that said second electrode is a 0059 Also this device comprises triggering means for
liquid electrode. triggering a discharge between said first and second elec
0041 Preferably, the device comprises a main body, said trode, preferably connected or fixed to said first electrode.
first electrode being at least partially received within said 0060. The triggering means can be based upon the point
main body. effect and are preferably substantially comp-shaped.
0042. In an advantageous configuration, said inlet port 0061 The invention also provides a generator assembly,
and/or said at least a recirculating outlet port are obtained on comprising a generator device as Sofar described and a high
said main body. frequency or tension electric generator connected or connect
0043 Preferably, said inlet port or said at least a recircu able to one or both electrodes.
lating outlet port are arranged at an end, preferably at a base, 0062 Preferably, the assembly further comprises a motor
of said main body. Preferably, said at least a recirculating apt to drive the rotation of one of said electrodes of said
outlet port and said inlet port are arranged at a lateral wall or generator device, preferably at a maximal speed of about
skirt of said main body. 2800 revolutions per minute.
0044 Advantageously, said at least a recirculating outlet 0063. The invention also provides a reactor apparatus suit
port defines an outlet area Substantially equal to, or greater able for use in a process, in particular for producing nitric or
than, the cross section area of said main body. Sulphuric acid, which apparatus comprises at least a generator
0045. The main body can have a plurality of recirculation device or generator assembly as defined above depending
outlet ports for the plasma gas, which ports are preferably upon the presence of an inner and outer electrode, said appa
arranged at a lateral wall or skirt of said main body. ratus having a tank region apt to receive a conductive liquid,
0046. In a preferred configuration, said main body and the arrangement being such that one of said inner and outer
said first electrode are arranged so that respective longitudinal electrodes of said generator device is at least partially
axes are substantially parallel or coincident, wherein prefer received in said tank region, and, in use, immersed in the
ably the common direction of said axes also corresponds to conductive liquid, and wherein the apparatus has at least an
that of an axis of rotation of said first electrode. outlet port for outputting gas/vapour obtained in said reactor
0047. The main body and the first electrode can be apparatus by a reaction involving the plasma gas generated in
arranged coaxially or eccentrically. said at least a generator device.
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

0064. The invention also provides a reactor apparatus, I0081. At least a cooling device can be provided, arranged
Suitable for use in a process, in particular for producing nitric downstream of said burner(s) and upstream of said reactor
or Sulphuric acid, which apparatus comprises at least agen apparatus.
erator device or generator assembly as defined above depend I0082 Preferably, the herein considered chemical plant is a
ing upon the provision of a liquid electrode, and wherein the plant for producing nitric or Sulphuric acid.
device has at least an outlet port for outputting a gas/vapour I0083. The invention further provides a chemical process
obtained in said reactor apparatus by a reaction involving the for producing a chemical Substance, in particular an acid, in
plasma gas generated in said at least a generator device. particular nitric or sulphuric acid, which preferably utilizes a
Preferably, even such apparatus with liquid electrode has a generator device, a generator assembly, a reactor apparatus or
tank region apt to receive the liquid electrode. a plant as defined above.
0065 Preferably, the reactor apparatus comprises an I0084. The invention also provides a chemical process for
external casing, said at least a generator device being at least producing a chemical Substance, in particular an acid, in a
partially arranged inside said casing. Advantageously, the reactor apparatus by means of cold plasma, wherein said cold
casing defines said tank region, the latter being preferably plasma is generated in a generator device of said reactor
substantially bulb- or basin-shaped. Preferably, said casing apparatus which comprises an outer electrode and an inner
has a conductive liquid inlet and a gas inlet, arranged at electrode arranged one surrounding the other so as to define
opposite sides or the one adjacent to the other one. between them a plasma generation region, which inner and/or
0066. In the version with liquid electrode, said casing has outer electrodes are fed by a power source so that a difference
an outlet of the gas/vapour, preferably arranged at a top por in electric potential is established between them at said
tion thereof. plasma generation region, wherein said inner and outer elec
0067. In a particularly advantageous configuration, said trode rotate one with respect to the other one, wherein a gas is
inner electrode is arranged so that, in use, it is at least partially made to cross said plasma generation region so as to obtain a
immersed in the conductive liquid received in said tank plasma gas, wherein a portion of said plasma gas which has
region. crossed said plasma generation region is recirculated in said
0068 Preferably, said at least a generator device is plasma generation region.
arranged so that a longitudinal axis thereof, preferably a I0085. The invention also provides a chemical process for
longitudinal axis of said inner electrode, is Substantially per producing a chemical Substance, in particular an acid, in a
pendicular to the free surface of said conductive liquid. reactor apparatus by means of cold plasma, wherein said cold
0069 Advantageously, the apparatus comprises means for plasma is generated in a generator device of said reactor
controlling and/or adjusting the level of said conductive liq apparatus which comprises a first electrode and a second
uid/liquid electrode inside said tank region. electrode arranged one with respect to the other one so as to
0070 The generator device can be arranged so that a lon define between them a plasma generation region, which first
gitudinal axis of said inner electrode is Substantially vertical and/or second electrode are fed by a power source so that a
or that a longitudinal axis of said first electrode is Substan difference in electric potential is established between them at
tially horizontal. said plasma generation region, wherein a gas is made to cross
0071. The apparatus preferably comprises a plurality of said plasma generation region so as to obtain a plasma gas,
generator devices and/or generator assemblies each one as wherein said second electrode is a liquid electrode. Also in
defined above. this case, preferably the plasma gas which has crossed said
0072 The invention also provides a chemical plant com plasma generation region is recirculated into said plasma
prising: generation region.
0073 a reactor apparatus or a generator device as I0086 Preferably, the inner electrode or the first elec
defined above, and trode is rotatable and the outer electrode is fixed. Alterna
0074 a condenser, operatively connected to said reactor tively, in the variant with electrodes one surrounding the other
apparatus or to said generator device to receive as an one such electrodes are rotatable. Preferably, a maximal rota
input the gas/vapour outputted therefrom. tional speed of about 2800 revolutions perminute is provided.
0075 Preferably, the plant further comprises a liquid-gas I0087 Advantageously, the outer and inner electrodes are
separator, arranged downstream of said condenser. arranged so that the respective longitudinal axes are substan
0076 Advantageously, at least a cooling device is pro tially parallel or coincident, the common direction of said
vided, arranged downstream of said condenser, which cool axes preferably corresponding also to that of an axis of rela
ing device preferably comprises a fog reactor. tive rotation.
0077. In an advantageous configuration, the plant further I0088. The outer and inner electrodes can be arranged
comprises at least a contact reactor arranged downstream of coaxially or eccentrically.
said condenser and preferably downstream of said at least a I0089. The generator device can be arranged with a longi
cooling device. Preferably, the contact reactor comprises tudinal axis of said inner electrode substantially vertical or
recirculation means of the condensed product. with a longitudinal axis of said first electrode substantially
0078. The plant can further comprise connection means horizontal.
between said contact reactor and said reactor apparatus apt to 0090 Advantageously, the recirculated portion of said
adduct a gas from the contact reactor in the reactor apparatus. plasma gas is in a ratio comprised in a range 1:10 up to 10:1
0079 Preferably, said cooling device and/or said contact with respect to the plasma gas which leaves the generator
reactor(s) comprise nebulisation means of a condensed prod device or the acid which leaves the reactor apparatus towards
uct received in said device(s). further steps of the process.
0080. The plant can also comprise at least a sulphur 0091. In a preferred configuration, one of said inner and
burner, apt to produce Sulphur fumes and arranged upstream outer electrodes is at least partially immersed in a conductive
of said reactor apparatus. liquid. Preferably, alongitudinal axis of said inner electrode is
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

Substantially perpendicular to the free Surface of said conduc 0.108 FIG. 5 shows a schematic view in longitudinal sec
tive liquid. In the variant with liquid electrode, preferably a tion of a reactor incorporating a cold plasma generator device
longitudinal axis of said first electrode is Substantially paral according to a second embodiment of the present invention,
lel to the free surface of said liquid electrode. which reactor is represented in a first operating mode;
0092. In the variant with liquid electrode, preferably a 0109 FIG. 6 shows a schematic view in longitudinal sec
main body is provided which encloses said first electrode and tion of the reactor of FIG.5, represented in a second operating
which is at least partially immersed in said liquid electrode. mode;
0093 Still in the variant with liquid electrode, advanta 0110 FIG. 7 shows a schematic view in longitudinal sec
geously the distance between said first and second electrode tion of a reactor incorporating a first embodiment variant of
is adjusted by controlling the level of said liquid electrode. the device of FIG. 5:
0094 Preferably, to cool down the gas entering said 0111 FIG. 8 shows a schematic view in longitudinal sec
plasma generation region a conductive liquid or the liquid tion of a reactor incorporating a second embodiment variant
electrode is used, preferably generating the vapour which of the device of FIG. 5:
enters said plasma generation region. 0112 FIG. 8A shows a schematic view in longitudinal
0095. The process can comprise a condensing step for the section of a cold plasma generator device or reactor according
acid and gas/vapour generated in said reactor apparatus. to a third embodiment of the present invention;
0096. The process can also comprise a liquid-gas separa 0113 FIG. 8B shows a schematic view in longitudinal
tion step downstream of said condensing step. section of a cold plasma generator device or reactor according
0097 Advantageously, at least a cooling step downstream to an additional embodiment of the present invention;
of said condensing step is provided, preferably a fog-cooling
step. 0114 FIG.9 shows a schematic front view of the reactor of
0098. The process can provide a further reaction step apt to FIG. 5;
increase the acid production, provided downstream of said 0115 FIG. 10 shows a schematic front view of a reactor
condensing step and preferably downstream of said at least a incorporating a pair of generator devices each one imple
cooling step. Such additional reaction step can provide an mented according to the embodiment of FIG. 5;
increase in the contact Surface between the condensed acid 0116 FIG. 11 shows a schematic block representation of a
and vapours, preferably by using nebulisation or spraying first embodiment of a chemical plant or apparatus incorpo
means, and in case a recirculation of condensed acid. A recir rating a cold plasma generator device and/or a related reactor
culation of gas from said additional reaction step to said according to anyone of the preceding figures;
generator device can also be provided. 0117 FIG. 12 shows the plant of FIG. 11 in the variant
0099. In a preferred embodiment, said acid is H2SO4 and incorporating the reactor of FIG. 4;
the process comprises a step for producing Sulphur fumes, the 0118 FIG. 13 shows a schematic block representation of a
latter being the input gas crossing said plasma generation second embodiment of a chemical plant or apparatus incor
region. The process can further provide at least a cooling step porating a cold plasma generator device and/or a related
of said Sulphur fumes before their inletting into said plasma reactor according to anyone of FIGS. 1 to 10;
generation region. 0119 FIG. 14 shows a schematic block representation of a
0100. In another preferred embodiment, said acid is nitric third embodiment of a chemical plant or apparatus incorpo
acid and the input gas crossing said plasma generation region rating a cold plasma generator device and/or a related reactor
is air. according to anyone of FIGS. 1 to 10; and
0101 The reactor and the associated method of the present I0120 FIG. 15 shows a schematic block representation of a
invention allow producing with high efficiency several fifth embodiment of a chemical plant or apparatus incorpo
chemical Substances. The invention is particularly advanta rating a cold plasma generator device and/or a related reactor
geous for producing nitric acid, Sulphuric acid, NO, NO, according to anyone of FIGS. 1 to 10.
NO, N, O, and advanced oxidation products, Volatile
Organic Compounds (VOCs). Such as for example the oxida DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED
tion of hydrocarbons in water and carbon dioxide. EMBODIMENTS
0102) According to an embodiment the present invention
relates to atmospheric cold plasma apparatuses and processes I0121 Various embodiments and variants of the generator
for producing nitric acid, Sulphuric acid, ammonium nitrate, device, of the reactor, of the plant and of the method or
ammonium Sulphate, calcium nitrate or ammonium nitrate. processes of the invention will be described hereinafter, and
this with reference to the above mentioned figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 0.122 Analogous components are designated in the differ
0103) The figures of the enclosed drawings will be ent figures with the same reference numbers.
referred to, wherein: I0123. In the following detailed description, additional
0104 FIG. 1 shows a schematic view in longitudinal sec embodiments and variants with respect to embodiments and
tion of a cold plasma generator device according to a first variants already discussed in the same description will be
embodiment of the present invention; illustrated limited to the difference with respect to what
0105 FIG. 2 shows a schematic view in longitudinal sec already illustrated.
tion of an embodiment variant of the device of FIG. 1; 0.124. Furthermore, the different embodiments and vari
0106 FIG. 3 shows a schematic view in longitudinal sec ants described hereinafter are subjected to be used in combi
tion of a reactor incorporating the device of FIG. 1; nation, where compatible.
0107 FIG. 4 shows a schematic view in longitudinal sec 0.125 By firstly referring to FIG. 1, a cold plasma genera
tion of a reactor incorporating a pair of generator devices each tor device according to a first preferred embodiment of the
one implemented according to the embodiment of FIG. 1; invention is designated as a whole with 101. The device 101
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

is suitable to be used in the process chemical industry, in 0142. In a specific embodiment example, the intermediate
particular in a chemical plant for producing nitric or Sulphuric support 7 is fixed on the outer electrode 2 with hidden screws
acid. or other mechanical system.
0126 The device 101 comprises an inner electrode 1 and 0.143 Preferably, the closing element 6 and/or the inter
an outer electrode 2, arranged so that the second one Sur mediate support 7 are made of plastic material. The choice of
rounds the first one. the specific plastic material depends upon the reactions which
0127. In the present example, the inner electrode 1 is sub are wanted to be triggered, upon the process temperatures and
stantially shaft-shaped, in particular having a longitudinal upon the value of the electric Voltage applied between the two
axis L and preferably cylindrical geometry. The inner elec electrodes, thereabout it will be spoken shortly.
trode 1 for example can be implemented with tubular shape, 0144. In order to allow the rotation of the inner electrode 1,
or obtained from a lathe-machined solid cylindrical bar. both the closing element 6 and the intermediate support 7 can
0128. The inner electrode 1 is rotatable around an axis of have, at one its own seat allowing the passage of the electrode
rotation A, which in the present example coincides with the 1 itself, one or more bearings, for example a bearing made of
longitudinal axis L. plastic material or a bushing made of special polymer with
0129. Still in the present example, the outer electrode 2 is very low friction coefficient.
arranged coaxially to the inner electrode 1, with a longitudi (0145 The electrodes 1 and 2 are connected or connectable
nal axis thereof coincident with the longitudinal axis L of the to a high-voltage or frequency electric source, Suitable to
electrode 1 itself. bring them at different voltages. In FIG. 1 such source has
0130. The outer electrode 2 has a substantially tubular been generically represented by means of two terminals 15
structure, preferably with cylindrical geometry. and 16, respectively connected to the inner electrode 1 and to
0131 The electrodes 1 and 2 then result to be substantially the outer electrode 2.
centered according to Such common longitudinal axis L. 0146 The device 1 further comprises triggering means of
0132) The overall arrangement is so that between the two a discharge between the two electrodes 1 and 2, arranged at
electrodes 1 and 2 a region 121 remains defined, which for the plasma generation region 121. In the present example, the
reasons which will be explained hereinafter will be defined as triggering means is integral to the inner rotating electrode 1.
plasma generation. In the present example, such region 121 Still in the present example, the triggering means is based
has a Substantially toric shape. upon the point effect and it comprises in particular an element
0.133 Preferably, the electrodes 1 and 2 are made of metal. 3 substantially shaped like a comb.
The choice of the specific metallic material depends upon the 0147 Preferably, the comb-shaped element 3 is made of
reactions which are wanted to be triggered. metallic material. The choice of the specific metallic material
0134. In a preferred configuration, the useful (inner) cross depends upon the reactions which are wanted to be triggered.
section area of the outer electrode 2 is about 25 to 100 times 0.148. In a specific embodiment example, the comb
greater than the cross section area of the inner electrode 1. In shaped element 3 is constituted by single metallic blocks
particular, since in the present example the inner electrode 1 obtained from pre-constituted wire or comb. In such example:
and the outer one 2 have both circular or substantially circular 0.149 the height of the comb teeth can vary from 1 mm
cross section, the (maximum) diameter of the inner electrode up to about 100 mm,
1 and the (minimum) diameter of the outer electrode 2 pref 0.150 the thickness of the single teeth can vary from 1
erably are in a ratio comprised between about 1/10 and about mm up to about 5 mm,
1/5. 0151 the inter-axis of the teeth can vary from 1 mm up
0135 Preferably, the diameter of the inner electrode 1 is to about 10 mm, and/or
comprised in a range of about 20-200 mm. 0152 the total length of the comb can vary from 10 mm
0.136 Preferably, the inner electrode 1 and/or the outer one up to about few meters.
2 have a length starting from 200 mm and as far as few meters. 0153. In the variant of FIG. 2, the triggering means also
0.137 In general, as it will be better comprised based upon comprises an additional triggering element, designated with
the following description, the specific sizes of the electrodes 3a and preferably with comb-shaped structure analogous to
1 and 2 and the related proportions depend upon the power of the already described one. Even the element3a is arranged at
the generator device 101 and upon the features of the flow of the region 121. The element 3a is integral to the outer elec
gas to be treated in the region 121. trode 2 so as to result (periodically) to be faced onto the
0138 Based upon an embodiment variant, (also) the outer above-mentioned first element 3.
electrode 2 can be rotatable. In case of rotation of both elec 0154) In such variant, the generator device is designated as
trodes 1 and 2, they preferably will move around a same axis, a whole with 102.
in opposite direction. 0155 Thanks to the described arrangement, between the
0139 Preferably, the outer electrode 2 is closed on the top two electrodes 1 and 2 an electric field is generated which
by an element 6, allowing the passage of the electrode 1 and ionizes and excites the particles of the gas existing or passing
which is electrically insulating. in the plasma generation region 121, by allowing to obtain,
0140. In a specific embodiment example, the closing ele outletting from the region 121, a plasma gas.
ment 6 is a airtight lid, fixed on the outer electrode 2 with 0156 The device 101 further comprises gas intaking
gaskets, flanges or other mechanical system. means, in particular air, within the plasma generation region
0141 Furthermore, in the present example the device 101 121. In the present example, such intaking means comprises
provides an intermediate support 7, interposed between the a rotor or impeller 4, revolving integrally to the inner elec
inner electrode 1 and the outer electrode 2. Such support 7 trode 1 and mounted thereon upstream of the gas flow with
guarantees indeed a centering and a Support for the inner respect to the region 121. The impeller 4 then, in the present
electrode 1 and an electric insulation between the electrodes example, is an axial impeller. The impeller 4 is arranged near
1 and 2. a gas inlet 8 thereabout it will be discussed shortly.
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

0157 Preferably, the impeller 4 is made at least partially of 0172 At the casing 11, and in particular of the tank region
plastic material. The choice of the plastic material depends thereof 180, an inlet 13 for the liquid and an outlet 14 still for
upon the reactions which are wanted to be triggered and by the liquid are obtained. Preferably, such inlet and outlet 13
the process temperatures. and 14 are arranged at the side skirt of the casing 11.
0158 Preferably, the impeller 4 has a diameter comprised 0173 Furthermore, a lower liquid outlet 17 is provided, to
in a range of about 70%-95%, more preferably about 60%- empty the reactor 201 at the end of the operation or for
90%, of the inner diameter of the outer electrode 2. maintenance.
0159. The outer electrode 2 has the already mentioned gas 0.174 Preferably, automatic or manual means for adjust
inlet 8, in particular arranged at one its own base, upstream of ing the level of the conductive liquid in the tank region 180 is
the plasma generation region 121 with respect to the gas flow provided.
as adducted indeed as inlet by the impeller 4. The gas inlet 8 0.175. The casing 11 furthermore has an inlet 12 for the
defines the Sucking section of the impeller 4. gas, typically air. In the herein considered arrangement, the
0160 The outer electrode 2 has also a plurality of outlet air inlet 12 of the reactor 201 is obtained on the opposite side
ports for the gas recirculation, designated with 5 and the with respect to the liquid inlet 13, still at the side skirt of the
function thereof will be explained hereinafter. Preferably, the casing 11.
ports 5 are arranged at a side wall, the side skirt in the present 0176). In the considered example an upper closing element
example, of the electrode 2. The ports 5 are arranged down 60 for the casing 11 is provided, Substantially analogous to
stream of the plasma generation region 121 still with respect the closing element 6 already described with reference to the
to the flow of inlet gas, so that therethrough a portion of the generator device 101.
plasma gas which has formed in Such region 121 outgoes. The 0177. The generator device 101 is at least partially
reference number 9 indeed designates the direction of the received within the casing 11 of the reactor 201. In the herein
flow of plasma gas outletting from the ports 5. considered arrangement, the outlet of plasma gas 10 of the
0161 Still based upon a preferred embodiment, the gas device 101 is arranged outside the casing 11, whereas the
outletting area defined by the recirculation ports 5 is substan recirculation outlets 5 are arranged within the latter, indeed to
tially equal to or greater than the useful (inner) cross section obtain a gas recirculation within the casing 11.
area of the outer electrode 2.
0162 Preferably, each one of the recirculation ports 5 has 0.178 Still in the present example, the casing 11 and the
a substantially circular profile. generator device 101 are arranged substantially coaxial along
(0163 Preferably, the distance between an average point of the axis Lofthe device 101, which axis in the present example
the recirculation ports 5 and the closing element 6-orgen is vertical or substantially vertical. The inner electrode 1
erally the upper margin of the outer electrode 2 can vary results then to be substantially orthogonal to the free surface
between about 50 mm and 500 mm, independently from the 18 of the conductive liquid.
length of the electrode 2 itself. 0179 The overall arrangement is so that, in use, the lower
0164. Embodiment variants can provide one single recir portion of the inner electrode 1, preferably a portion extend
culation port 5. ing for about half length of such electrode, is immersed in the
conductive liquid.
0.165. The outer electrode 2 then has an additional port for 0180. The typical operating modes of the reactor 201 and
outletting gas, designated with 10, arrange downstream of the of the generator device 101 incorporated therein are illus
recirculation ports 5. trated hereinafter.
0166 As it will be better explained hereinafter, from the
outletting port 10 the plasma gas outgoes, useful in the imple 0181. With the already mentioned outer motor—or with
mented chemical process. equivalent driving means—and with Suitable transmissions
0167. The quantity of plasma gas outletting from the port with high electric insulation the inner electrode 1 is put into
10 with respect to the one recirculated through the ports 5 is rotation with angular speed from few revolutions per minute
linked to the overpressure which generates within the device to 2800 revolutions per minute.
101, and more in general within the reactor incorporating it. 0182. In this case only the electrode 2 is fed with high
0168 The generator device 101 can also be provided as Voltage and/or high frequency, whereas the casing 11 of the
portion of an assembly comprising the above-mentioned reactor is grounded. The inner electrode 1, in this configura
energy source or generator 15, 16 connected or connectable to tion, ground discharges by means of the conductive liquid and
the two electrodes 1 and 2. the casing 11. In the space comprised between the points of
0169. Furthermore, such assembly can comprise even a the comb-shaped element 3 and the outer electrode 2, that is
motor or other driving means of the inner electrode 1 and/or in the plasma generation region 121 illustrated above, a dis
of the impeller 4, preferably suitable to produce a rotation of charge is triggered, in particular a discharge visible thanks to
the latter of about 2800 revolutions/minute. The choice of the the proximity between the two conductive portions and to the
rotation speed depends upon the size of the generator device point effect.
101 and upon the applied Voltages and frequencies. 0183. The rotation of the central electrode 1 moves con
(0170 By now referring to FIG.3, the generator device 101 tinuously the triggering area, by distributing it uniformly over
described above is shown as portion of a reactor 201. the whole cylindrical surface of the electrodes 1 and 2 and the
0171 The reactor 201 has an external casing, or case, 11 toric volume of the region 121.
defining a tank region 180, which receives, in use, a conduc 0184. After the triggering discharge, between the central
tive liquid, preferably water. The free surface of the latter is electrode 1 and the outer one 2 a plasma cylindrical region is
designated with 18. Preferably, the casing 11 has an upper created even involving all length of the outer electrode 2.
portion with Substantially cylindrical geometry and a lower 0185. The rotation of the central electrode 1 carries there
portion, corresponding to the region 180, Substantially with the impeller 4 sucking gas, in particular air, from the inlet
shaped like a basin or bulb. 8 and makes it to cross the plasma cylindrical region which
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

has created. As said, a portion of the obtained plasma gas 0201 In a preferred configuration, the useful (inner) cross
outgoes from the recirculation ports 5. section area of the main body 52 is about 25 to 100 times
0186 The immersion of the inner electrode 1 in the con greater than the cross section area of the electrode 51. In
ductive liquid, apart from representing an optimum rotating particular, since in the present example the electrode 51 and
or sliding electric contact, determines the cooling thereof. For the main body 52 have both circular or substantially circular
this reason, a portion of the conductive liquid vaporizes and it cross section, the (maximum) diameter of the electrode 51
is sucked by the impeller 4 together with the gases recircu and the (minimum) diameter of the body 52 preferably are in
lated in the environment of the reactor 201 and with the gas a ration comprised between about 1/10 and about 1/5.
inletting from the inlet 12. (0202 Preferably, the diameter of the electrode 51 is com
0187. The sucked gases and vapours are then subjected to prised in a range of about 20-200 mm.
a wide cold plasma region, particularly interesting for the (0203 Preferably, the electrode 51 and/or the main body 52
process chemical industry. have a length starting from 200 mm and up to few meters.
0188 The equilibrium between the rate of gas outgoing 0204. In general, as it will be understood based upon the
from the reactor through the port 10 and becomes then useful following description, the specific sizes of the components 51
to the purpose of production of a chemical Substance and the and 52 and the related proportions depend upon the power of
rate of gases recirculated through the ports 5 depends upon the generator device 111 and by the features of the flow of gas
the specific operating needs and influences the overall perfor to be treated.
mance of the process. Preferably, such rates are in a ratio (0205 Preferably, the main body 52 is closed on the top by
which can vary in a range 1:1 and up to about 1:10. a flange-like element 56, allowing the passage of the shaft 501
0189 FIG. 4 shows a second embodiment of reactor, des and which is electrically insulating. In the embodiment vari
ignated with 202, which comprises a plurality, in particular a ant shown in FIG. 5, the flange-like element 56 is an integrat
pair, of generator devices 101. ing portion of the main body 52.
(0190. By now referring to FIGS. 5 and 9, a cold plasma 0206. In order to allow the rotation of the shaft 501, the
generator device according to another preferred embodiment closing element 56 can have, at its own seat allowing the
of the invention is designated as a whole with 111. passage of the shaft 501 itself, one or more bearings or a
(0191 Even the device 111 is suitable to be used in the bushing made of a special polymer with very low friction
process chemical industry, in particular in a chemical plant coefficient.
for producing nitric or Sulphuric acid. 0207. The device 111 further comprises means for trigger
(0192 The device 111 comprises an electrode 51, which in ing means a discharge between the electrode 51 and a second
the present example is integral to a revolving shaft 501, pref electrode thereabout it will be spoken later. Such triggering
erably at an intermediate region of the latter. The electrode 51 means is arranged at a plasma generation region 521,
and the shaft 501 have a longitudinal axis L and preferably described later too.
cylindrical geometry. The electrode 51 for example can be 0208. In the present example, the triggering means is inte
implemented with tubular shape, as shown in FIG. 5, or gral to the rotating electrode 51. Still in the present example,
obtained from a lathe-machined solid cylindrical bar. In the the triggering means is based upon the point effect and com
latter case, it can be interposed between longitudinally adja prises in particular a substantially comb-shaped element 53.
cent portions of the shaft 501. (0209 Preferably, the comb-shaped element 53 is made of
(0193 The electrode 51 is rotatable integrally to the shaft metallic material. The choice of the specific metallic material
501-around an axis of rotation A, which in the present depends upon the reactions which are wanted to be triggered.
example coincides with the longitudinal axis L. The rotation The comb-shaped element 53 can be wholly analogous to the
can be indifferently right-handed or left-handed. one already described with reference to FIG. 1 and therefore
0194 The rotating shaft 501 for example can be made of it will not further be illustrated.
electric insulating material, such as plastics or ceramics. The 0210. The device 111 further comprises gas intaking
choice of the plastic material depends upon the reactions means, in particular air, within the plasma generation region
which are wanted to be triggered, by the process tempera 521. In the present example, such intaking means comprises
tures, by the value of the applied electric voltage and by the a rotor or impeller 54, revolving integrally with the electrode
requested mechanical resistance. 51 and mounted thereon or on the shaft 501 upstream of the
0.195 Still in the present example, a main body 52 is pro flow of gas with respect to the region 521. The impeller 54
vided, arranged outside the electrode 51 and, in the repre then, in the present example, is an axial impeller. The impeller
sented variant, coaxially to the electrode 51 itself. 54 is arranged near a gas inlet 58 thereabout it will be spoken
0196. Preferably, the main body 52 has a longitudinal axis shortly.
thereof coincident with the longitudinal axis L of the elec 0211. The impeller 54 can be made of plastic or metallic
trode 51 itself. The electrode 51 and the main body 52 then material, indifferently. The choice of the plastic/metallic
result to be substantially centred along Such common longi material depends upon the reactions which are wanted to be
tudinal axis L. triggered and by the process temperatures.
0197) The main body 52 has a substantially tubular struc 0212. The features of the impeller, even depending upon
ture, preferably a cylindrical geometry. the sizes with respect to the main body 52, can be the same
(0198 Preferably, the components 51 and 52 are made of already illustrated for the impeller 4 of FIG. 1 related to the
metal. The choice of the specific metallic material depends herein considered outer electrode 2.
upon the reactions which are wanted to be triggered. 0213. The main body 52 has the already mentioned gas
0199. In the present example, the longitudinal axis L is inlet 58, in particular arranged at its own base, upstream of the
arranged substantially horizontal. plasma generation region 521 with respect to the gas flow as
(0200 Preferably, the length of the electrode 51 is shorter adducted indeed as inlet from the impeller 54. The gas inlet 58
than the length of the main body 52 and up to half of the same. defines the sucking section of the impeller 54.
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

0214. At the gas inlet 58 a spoke-like support 500 is 0230. The casing 511 then, at its own side skirt and in
placed, to house a bearing for centering the shaft 501. particular an upper portion of the latter, provides an outlet 510
0215. The main body 52 has also a plurality of gas outlet for the plasma gas useful in the implemented chemical pro
ports, designated with 55, for the recirculation of the plasma CCSS,
gas which has crossed la plasma generation region 521. 0231. The quantity of plasma gas outgoing from the port
0216 Preferably, the ports 55 are arranged at a side wall, 510 with respect to the one recirculated through the ports 55
the side skirt in the present example, of the body 52. The ports is linked to the overpressure generating within the device 111
55 are arranged downstream of the plasma generation region and the reactor 211.
521 still with respect to the flow of inlet gas, so that there 0232 Even the device 111 can be provided as portion of an
through a portion of the plasma gas, which has formed in Such assembly which also comprises an electric source and in case
region 521, outgoes. a driving motor of the electrode 51, in a wholly analogous
0217 Still based upon a preferred embodiment, the gas way to what already described with reference to the first
outlet area defined by the recirculation ports 55 is substan embodiment and related variants.
tially equal to or greater than the useful (inner) cross section 0233. The above-described generator device 111 at first
area of the main body 52. can work like the generator device 101 or 102 of preceding
0218. Preferably, each one of the recirculation ports 55 has FIGS. 1 to 4. In such case, the main body 52 acts as outer
a Substantially circular or rectangular profile. electrode and the electrode 51 as inner electrode.
0219. The main body 52 furthermore has liquid inlet ports 0234 Based upon a highly preferred configuration, alter
555, suitable to allow a partial immersion of the main body 52 native to that justmentioned and shown in FIG. 5, the device
itself, and in particular of the side skirt thereof, within a 111 works by using as second triggering electrode—that is
conductive liquid 522. In particular, the ports 555 allow the additional electrode with respect to the rotating electrode
conductive liquid to penetrate the space comprised between 51—a liquid electrode indeed defined by the conductive liq
main body 52 and electrode 51. uid 522 received in the casing 511 of the reactor 211. As
0220. In the shown specific embodiment, the liquid inlet already said and as shown, in use the free surface 518 of the
ports 555 and the recirculation ports 55 are arranged in sub liquid electrode 522 is faced onto the rotating electrode 51
stantially orthogonal position the ones with respect to the within the main body 52 and in particular at the plasma
other ones on respective portions of the main body 52. generation region 521.
0221 Embodiment variants can provide a single recircu 0235. In such configuration, the casing 511 is made of
lation port 55 and/or a single liquid inlet port 555. conductive material and connected, together with the rotating
0222. The device 111 comprises then a sliding electric electrode 51, to the electric source with high voltage or fre
contact 558 associated to the electrode 51 and suitable to quency identified with terminals 515 and 516, suitable to put
connect the latter, for example by means of a stem or conduc the electrodes with different voltages. In this way, such volt
tive wire 559 and an insulating sleeve 557 passing through the age transfers from the casing 511 to the liquid electrode 522.
closing element 56, to an electric source with high Voltage or 0236 Thanks to the described arrangement, between the
frequency. A terminal-pole of the latter is designated, by way electrodes 51 and 522 an electric field is generated which
of example, with 515. ionizes and excites the particles of gas existing or passing in
the plasma generation region 521, allowing to obtain, as out
0223) The generator device 111 is shown as part of a let from the region 521, a plasma gas.
reactor 211.
0237. The typical operating modes of the reactor 211 and
0224. The reactor 211 has an external casing 511 prefer of the generator device 111 incorporated therein are illus
ably with Substantially cylindrical or parallelepiped geom trated hereinafter.
etry. The generator device 111 is at least partially received 0238 Firstly the chamber of the reactor is filled-up with
within the casing 511 of the reactor 211. the conductive liquid, which can be water or other, until a
0225. The casing 511 defines a tank region 580, which, in level so as to flood partially the main body 52 and however
use, receives the already mentioned conductive liquid 522, without ever coming in contact with the comb-shaped ele
preferably water. The free surface of the latter is designated ment 53 or with the impeller 54.
with 518. 0239. In this way it is guaranteed that the filling liquid,
0226 Between the casing 511 and the closing flange 56 of apart from reaction liquid, becomes even the power Supply
the device 111 a gasket 554 can be interposed. conductor which implements the second electrode 522.
0227. In the present example, the casing 511 is arranged 0240. The above-mentioned level is kept constant by
substantially aligned to the electrode 51 and to the main body inserting new liquid and preferably controlled and adjusted
52 along the axis L of the device 111, and in particular with Suitable means, known on itself.
substantially horizontal. The electrode 51 then results to be 0241 The management of the liquid level can be particu
substantially parallel to the free surface 518 of the conductive larly important for generating the triggering discharge, since
liquid 522. the distance between this level/liquid electrode and the teeth
0228. At the casing 511, and in particular at its tank region of the comb-shaped element 53 are fundamental for generat
580, an inlet 513 for the liquid and an inlet 512 for gas, ing the discharge for different applied values of Voltage and
typically air, are obtained. In the herein considered arrange frequency.
ment, the air inlet 512 of the reactor 211 is obtained on the 0242. In the same way, under dynamic conditions, after
same side of the liquid inlet 513, preferably at a base of the having triggered the discharge and started the plasma in the
casing 511. generation region 521, it could be necessary increasing the
0229. Preferably, automatic or manual means for adjust distance between the comb-shaped element 53 and the liquid
ing the conductive liquid level in the tank region 580 is electrode 522 and this could be done, for example, by adjust
provided. ing the liquid level.
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

0243. After having inserted the conductive liquid within (0255 With respect to the embodiment of FIG. 5, in this
the reactor 221, with the already mentioned outer motor—or case the impeller is shown under the form of a centrifugal
with equivalent driving means—and with Suitable transmis impeller 64. A centering bracket 62 for the shaft 501 is further
sions with high electric insulation, the first electrode 51 is provided.
made to rotate with angular speed from few revolutions per 0256 The advantage of having a centrifugal fan is to be
minute up to 2800 revolutions per minute. The rotation speed able to have available greater total pressure to force the gases/
depends upon the generator size and upon the applied Volt vapours to cross the plasma region 521 and to keep constant
ages and frequencies. the direction of these flows, independently from the fact if the
0244. By Supplying high Voltage and/or high frequency to shaft is in a right-handed or left-handed rotation.
the electrodes 51 and 522, in the space comprised between the 0257 FIG. 8 shows an additional embodiment of the gen
points of the comb-shaped element 53 and the second elec erator device, herein designated as a whole with 113 and
trode 522, that is in the plasma generation region 521, a inserted in a reactor 213.
discharge is triggered, in particular a discharge visible thanks 0258. In this case the rotating shaft, herein designated with
to the proximity between the two conductive portions and to 601, with all elements fixed thereto, is placed in a no longer
the point effect. concentric, but eccentric position with respect to the main
0245. The rotation of the first electrode 51 moves continu body 52. This positioning can be useful for example when, for
ously the triggering area, by distributing it uniformly over the technical reasons, it is necessary guaranteeing a more effi
whole cylindrical surface of the electrodes 51 and 522 and the cient arc turn-off.
toric area of the region 521 as defined even by the not 0259. In this asset the distance between the teeth of the
immersed side skirt of the main body 52. comb-shaped element 53 and the main body 52 is not con
0246. After the triggering discharge, between the first stant, varying from a minimum when the combs are faced
electrode 51 and the second electrode 522 a plasma cylindri perpendicularly to the liquid electrode 522, until a maximum
cal region is created, which can involve even the whole length when the comb-shaped element 53 is 180° from the minimum
of the main body 52. distance.
0247. The rotation of the first electrode 51 carries there 0260. With respect to the preceding figures with coaxial
with the impeller 54 sucking gas and vapours from the inlet 58 shaft, the maximum distance which is implemented is greater
and makes them to cross the plasma cylindrical region which than the maximum distance with respect to the described
has created, outgoing from the recirculation ports 55. preceding embodiments.
0248. In this way a continuous recirculation of the reaction 0261 FIG. 10 shows a different embodiment of reactor,
gases/vapours in the plasma area is guaranteed. The heat designated with 214, which comprises a plurality, in particu
generated by the electric art will make to increase the tem lar a pair, of generator devices 111.
peratures of the recycled gases and vapours, but the continu 0262 FIG. 8A shows a third preferred embodiment of a
ous contact with the liquid free Surface implements the con cold plasma generator device according to the invention,
dition of an adiabatic thermal exchange, so that the heat is herein designated as a whole with 114. Even the generator
absorbed by generation of new vapour. In this way, by man device 114, similarly to the devices shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, is
aging Suitably the process parameters two favourable condi of the kind which can use a liquid electrode, herein designated
tions are implemented, that is with 222.
0249 formation of vapour which is more reactive 0263 Even the device 114 is suitable to be used in the
chemically and which is continuously recirculated in the process chemical industry, in particular in a chemical plant
region 521, for producing nitric or Sulphuric acid.
0250) keeping the inner temperature of the reactor 211 0264. The device 114 comprises a substantially shaft
at values equal to the liquid evaporation temperature. shaped electrode 21. The electrode 21 has a longitudinal axis
L and preferably cylindrical geometry. The electrode 21 for
0251 Under dynamic conditions, through the gas inlet example can be implemented with tubular shape, or obtained
512 the reaction gases are inserted, as well as through the from a lathe-machined solid cylindrical bar.
liquid inlet 513 the reaction liquid is inserted continuously. 0265. The electrode 21 is rotatable around an axis or rota
0252. The equilibrium between the rate of the plasma gas tion A, which in the present example coincides with the lon
outgoing from the reactor 211 through the port 510 and the gitudinal axis L. The rotation can be indifferently right
rate of the gases recirculated through the ports 55 depends handed or left-handed.
upon the specific operating needs and influences the overall 0266 The device 114 has an external casing 220 defining
performance of the process. Preferably, such rates are in a a tank region 28, which receives, in use, a conductive liquid
ratio which can vary in a range of about 1:1 and up to 1:10. 222, preferably water. The free surface of the latter is desig
0253 FIG. 6 relates to a second operating mode of the nated with 218. Preferably, the casing 220 has an upper por
reactor 211 and of the device 111. In such second mode, the tion with Substantially cylindrical geometry and a lower por
rotation direction of the first electrode 51 is inverted with tion, corresponding to the region 28, Substantially shaped like
respect to that of FIG. 5. This determines an inversion of the a basin or bulb.
role of the gas inlet and outlet ports 58 and 55 of the device 0267 At the casing 220, and in particular at the tank region
itself. In particular, the flows of the gases/vapours inside the thereof 28, an inlet 23 for the liquid and an outlet 24, still for
plasma region 521 result to be inverted: the gas which has to the liquid, are obtained. Preferably, such inlet and outlet 23
cross the region 521 is inserted by the port(s) 55 and outgoes and 24 are arranged at the side skirt of the casing 220, pref
under the form of plasma gas from the port 58. erably on opposite sides thereof.
0254 FIG. 7 shows a different embodiment of the genera 0268. Furthermore, a lower liquid outlet 217 is provided,
tor device, herein designated as a whole with 112 and inserted to empty the device 114 at the end of operation or for main
in a reactor 212. tenance.
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

0269 Preferably, automatic or manual means for adjust 0283. The choice of the material of the impeller depends
ing the level of conductive liquid in the tank region 28 is upon the reactions which are wanted to be triggered and by
provided. the process temperatures.
0270. The casing 220 has further an inlet 22 for the gas. In 0284. The teeth of the comb-shaped element 231 prefer
the herein considered arrangement, the gas inlet 22 is ably are directly integral, for example welded, to the blades of
obtained on opposite side with respect to the liquid inlet 23, the impeller 240.
still at the side skirt of the casing 220. (0285. The reference 27 designates the lines of flow of the
0271 In the herein considered arrangement, the device gases moved by the radial impeller 240.
114 has a plasma gas outlet 110 arranged on the casing 220, 0286 The device 114 then comprises a sliding electric
preferably on opposite side with respect to the gas inlet 22. contact 25 associated to the electrode 21 and suitable to
0272 Still in the present example, the casing 220 and the connect the latter to an electric Source with high Voltage or
electrode 21 are arranged Substantially coaxial along the axis frequency. A terminal-pole of the latter is designated, by way
L., which axis in the present example is vertical or Substan of example, with 270.
tially vertical. The electrode 1 then results to be substantially 0287 Even the device 114 can be provided as a portion of
orthogonal to the free surface 218 of the conductive liquid. an assembly which comprises even an electric source and in
(0273. The electrode 21 and the casing 220 result to be case a driving motor of the electrode 21, in a wholly analo
Substantially centered along Such common longitudinal axis gous way to what already described with reference to the first
L. embodiment and related variants.
0274. In the considered example, an upper closing element 0288 The above-described generator device 114 at first
260 for the casing 220. Substantially analogous to the closing can work like the generator device 101 or 102 of the preceding
element 6 already described with reference to the generator FIGS. 1 to 4. In such case, the casing 220 acts as outer
device 101 of FIG. 1 is provided. In order to allow the rotation electrode and the electrode 21 as inner electrode.
of the electrode 21, the closing element 260, at its own seat 0289 Based upon a highly preferred configuration, alter
allowing the passage of the electrode 21 itself, can have one or native to the one just mentioned and shown in FIG. 8A, the
more bearings or bushings made of special polymer with very device 114 works by using as second triggering electrode—
low friction coefficient. that is additional electrode with respect to the rotating elec
(0275 Preferably, the diameter of the electrode 21 is com trode 21—the already mentioned liquid electrode indeed
prised in a range of about 20-200 mm, depending upon the defined by the conductive liquid 222.
generator power and by the flow of the gas to be treated. 0290. In this configuration, the casing 220 is made of
(0276 Preferably, the electrode 21 and/or the casing 220 conductive material and connected, together with the rotating
have a length starting from 200 mm and up to few meters, electrode 21, to the electric source with high voltage or fre
depending upon the power of the generator and upon the flow quency identified with the already mentioned terminal 270
of the material to be treated. and with another terminal 26, suitable to put the electrodes at
(0277 Preferably, the electrode 21 and the casing 220 are different Voltages. In this way, Such voltage is transferred
made of metal. The choice of the specific metallic material from the casing 220 to the liquid electrode 222.
depends upon the reactions which are wanted to be triggered. 0291 Thanks to the described arrangement, between the
0278. The device 114 further comprises means for trigger electrodes 21 and 222 an electric field is generated which
ing a discharge between the electrode 21 and the liquid elec ionizes and excites the particles of gas existing or passing in
trode 222. Such triggering means is arranged at a plasma the plasma generation region 225, allowing to obtain, outlet
generation region 225. ting from the region 225, a plasma gas.
0279. In the present example, the triggering means is inte 0292. As far as the operation of the device 114 is con
gral to the rotating electrode 21. Still in the present example, cerned, the casing 220 is filled up with deionised water or
the triggering means is based upon the point effect and in other liquid through the inlet 23 and up to the level 218. This
particular comprises a substantially comb-shaped element level is kept constant with continuous liquid charging with
231. Suitable pump managed by level sensors inside the device or
0280 Preferably, the comb-shaped element 231 is made of the reactor wherein it is inserted. A possible liquid excess is
metallic material. The choice of the specific metallic material discharged by the overflow port 217.
depends upon the reactions which are wanted to be triggered. 0293 With an outer motor and suitable transmissions with
The comb-shaped element 231 can be wholly analogous to high electric insulation, the electrode 21 is put into rotation
the one already described with reference to the preceding with angular speed from few revolutions perminute and up to
embodiments and therefore it will be not further illustrated. about 2800 revolutions per minute. The rotation speed
0281. The device 114 further comprises means for intak depends upon the generator size and upon the applied Volt
ing gas within the plasma generation region 225. In the ages and frequencies.
present example, Such intaking means comprises a rotor or 0294 By supplying high voltage or high frequency or both
impeller 240, rotating integrally to the electrode 21 and of them to the electrodes, in the space comprised between the
mounted thereon. In the present embodiment the impeller 240 points of comb 231 and the surface of the liquid contained in
is of radial type and comprises a plurality of blades 241, the reactor, a discharge is triggered visible thanks to the
preferably made of metallic material, integral, in particular proximity between the two portions and thanks to the “point
welded, to a closing disc 242. The blades 241 can be in effect.
number of four to sixteen, depending upon the size and the 0295 The rotation of the central electrode 21 moves con
aeralic parameters which are wanted to be obtained. tinuously the triggering area, by distributing it uniformly over
0282. The closing disc 242 can be made of metallic mate the whole circular surface below the radial impeller.
rial too, with diameter preferably of 200 mm and up to few 0296. The rotation of the impeller 240, due to the centrifu
meters Or more. gal effect, Sucks gases and vapours from the bottom and it
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

pushes them in the radial direction. In this way the gases and 0309 Still in the present example, the casing 220 and the
vapours contained in the device Volume are continuously electrode 21 are arranged substantially coaxial along the axis
recycled and forced to cross the cold plasma region, with L., which axis in the present example is vertical or Substan
toroidal configuration, as shown by the flow lines 27. tially vertical. The electrode 1 then results to be substantially
0297. The sofar described generator system designated as orthogonal to the lower portion of the device 114.
a whole with 14 can be seen not only like a generator device, 0310. The electrode 21 and the casing 220 result to be
but also like a complete reactor. Substantially centered along Such common longitudinal axis
0298. The cold plasma generators and reactors can operate L
both with atmospherical pressure and with medium or high 0311. In the considered example, an upper closing element
pressure, therefore with absolute pressure values which can 260 for the casing 220 is provided, substantially analogous to
vary from 1 and up to 5 MPa. The operation values depend the closing element 6 already described with reference to the
upon the type of reaction which is wanted to continue, upon generator device 101 of FIG.1. In order to allow the rotation
the elements entering in the reaction and at last upon the of the electrode 21, the closing element 260, at its own seat
process economy which is wanted to be implemented. allowing the passage of the electrode 21 itself, can have one or
0299 The cold plasma generators can work with voltages more bearings or a bushing made of a special polymer with
starting from few kVolt and up to several hundreds of kVolt. very low friction coefficient.
The choice of the working Voltage depends upon the distance 0312 Preferably, the diameter of the electrode 21 is com
between the electrodes, upon the dielectric product pressing prised in a range of about 20-200 mm, depending upon the
between the electrodes and by the type of reaction which is generator power and by the flow of gas to be treated.
wanted to be developed. The frequency of the power supply
system can vary from 0 Hz and up to few tera Hz. Therefore, 0313 Preferably, the electrode 21 and/or the casing 220
from direct current up to laser frequency. Even this choice have a length starting from 200 mm and up to few meters,
depends upon the distance between the electrodes, upon the depending upon the generator power and upon the flow of
dielectric product pressing between the electrodes and upon material to be treated.
the type of reaction which is wanted to be developed, apart 0314 Preferably, the electrode 21 is made of metal. The
from the process economy. choice of the specific metallic material depends upon the
0300 FIG. 8A shows an additional preferred embodiment reactions which are wanted to be triggered.
of a cold plasma generator device according to the invention, 0315. The device 114 comprises then a counter-electrode
herein designated as a whole with 114. 222 substantially shaped like a grid or a holed plate, arranged
0301 The generator system designated as a whole with substantially horizontal in the herein considered example. In
114 which will be described hereinafter can be seen not only the present example, the electrode 222 is in electric contact
like a generator device, but also like a complete reactor. with the casing 220 for example by means of metallic legs. In
0302 Even the device 114 is suitable to be used in the the present arrangement the holed plate is positioned below
process chemical industry and/or in processes wherein an said inlets of the aeriform reagent 22, 23 and 24. The perfo
advanced oxidizing state of the Substances inserted at the ration of the electrode 222 allows the liquid outflow toward
gaseous and/or vapour state, in particular in a chemical plant the outlet 217.
for producing nitric or Sulphuric acid or other Substances as 0316 The device 114 further comprises means for trigger
already exemplified above, is requested. ing a discharge between the electrode 21 and the electrode
0303. The device 114 comprises a substantially shaft 222. Such triggering means is arranged at a plasma generation
shaped electrode 21. The electrode 21 has a longitudinal axis region 225.
L and preferably cylindrical geometry. The electrode 21 for 0317. In the present example, the triggering means is inte
example can be implemented with tubular shape, or obtained gral to the rotating electrode 21. Still in the present example,
from a lathe-machined solid cylindrical bar. the triggering means is based upon the point effect and com
0304. The electrode 21 is rotatable around an axis of rota prises in particular a substantially comb-shaped element 231.
tion A, which in the present example coincides with the lon
gitudinal axis L. The rotation can be indifferently right 0318 Preferably, the comb-shaped element 231 is made of
handed or left-handed. metallic material. The choice of the specific metallic material
0305. The device 114 has an external casing 220. Prefer depends upon the reactions which are wanted to be triggered.
ably, the casing 220 has a side portion, or skirt, with Substan The comb-shaped element 231 can be wholly analogous to
tially cylindrical geometry and a lower portion 28 Substan the one already described with reference to the preceding
tially shaped like a basin or bulb. embodiments and it will not be further illustrated.
(0306 The casing 220 has further three inlets 22, 23 and 24 0319. The device 114 further comprises means for intak
for the aeriform reagent like gas and/or vapour. In the herein ing aeriform reagent into the plasma generation region 225. In
considered arrangement, the gas inlets 22, 23 and 24 are the present example, Such intaking means comprises a rotor
obtained at the side skirt of the casing 220, in particular two or impeller 240, revolving integrally to the electrode 21 and
on one side and the third at the opposite side. Even in this case, mounted thereon. In the present embodiment the impeller 240
a different number of inlets, even only one, can be provided. is of radial type and it comprises a plurality of blades 241,
0307 Furthermore, a lower liquid outlet 217 can be pro preferably made of metallic material, integral, in particular
vided, for the reasons already illustrated above. The outlet welded, to a closing disc 242. The blades 241 can be in
217 in this example is arranged at the portion 28. number of four to sixteen, according to the size and the
0308. In the herein considered arrangement, the device aeraulic parameters which are wanted to be obtained.
114 has a plasma gas outlet 110, and in general for the aeri 0320. The closing disc 242, too, can be made of metallic
form reaction products, arranged on the casing 220, prefer material, with diameter preferably of 200 mm and up to few
ably on opposite side with respect to the inlets 22 and 24. meters Or more.
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

0321. The choice of the material of the impeller depends understandard conditions or air enriched with oxygen, in the
upon the reactions which are wanted to be triggered and by latter casa obtained, for example, with separators with
the process temperatures. molecular sieves or other technology known on itself.
0322 The teeth of the comb-shaped element 231 prefer 0335. The outlet 100, instead, relates to vapour of nitric
ably are directly integral, for example welded, to the blades of acid-nitrogen oxides--exceeding nitrogen--water vapour, as
the impeller 240. outlet from the reactor 200. Such outlet from the reactor is
0323. The reference 27 designates the lines of flow of the adducted in a condenser 70 cooling acid vapours, preferably
gases and/or vapours moved by the radial impeller 240. wholly made of metallic material. The choice of the specific
0324. The device 114 comprises then a sliding electric metallic material depends upon the vapour which as to be
contact 25 associated to the electrode 21 and suitable to condensed.
connect the latter to an electric Source with high Voltage or 0336. The condenser 70 has an inlet 71 of the above
frequency. A terminal-pole of the latter is designated, by way mentioned vapours and gases, an outlet 72 of condensed
of example, with 270. The other terminal is designated with acid-water+exceeding gas, an inlet 73 of the liquid or cooling
26 and puts the casing 220 and the counter-electrode 222 at gas—for example water or air—and an outlet 74 of the liquid
the same potential. Therefore, even the casing 220 will be or cooling gas.
preferably made of conductive, in particular metallic, mate 0337 Into the reactor 200 atmospheric air is inserted,
rial. under standard ambient conditions, properly filtered or air
0325 Even the device 114 can be provided as portion of an enriched with oxygen by molecular sieves or other system
assembly which comprises also an electric source and in case through the inlet 120, with flow proportioned to the inner
a driving motor of the electrode 21, in a wholly analogous recirculation factor of the reactor 200, which as said can vary
way to what already described with reference to the first from a ratio Air/Recirculation 1:1 and up to 1:10.
embodiment and related variants. 0338 Still into the reactor 200 deionised water is inserted
0326. The above-described generator device 114 can work through the inlet 130 and kept at level with suitable pumps
like the generator devices of the preceding figures. and sensors, not described as known on themselves.
0327. In particular, with an outer motor and suitable trans 0339. Once having started the cold plasma generators as
missions with high electric insulation, the electrode 21 is described above, in the reactor 200 the following reaction
made to rotate with angular speed from few revolutions per develops:
minute and up to about 2800 revolutions per minute. The
rotation speed depends upon the generator size and upon the
applied Voltages and frequencies. 2N2 + 5 O2 + 2 H2O -- 4 HNO3
0328 By supplying high voltage or high frequency or both Gas gaS liquid vapour
of them to the electrodes, in the space comprised between the
points of comb 231 and the electrode 222 a discharge is
triggered visible thanks to the proximity between the two 0340. The reaction takes place with formation of vapour of
portions and thanks to the proximity between the two portions nitric acid outgoing from the outlet 100 of the reactor 200,
and thanks to the “point effect. together with the nitrogen excess usually contained in the
0329. Thanks to the described arrangement, between the atmospheric air as well as a water vapour, oxygen and not
electrodes 21 and 222 an electric field is generated which reacted nitrogen oxides.
ionizes and excites the particles of gas or vapour existing or 0341 This flow of acid vapour, nitrogen, oxygen, water
passing in the plasma generation region 225, allowing to vapour and nitrogen oxides enters the condenser 70 through
obtain, outletting from the region 225, a plasma gas. the inlet 71 and outgoes cooled down and condensed from the
0330. The rotation of the central electrode 21 moves con bottom, from the outlet 72, still together with the nitrogen
tinuously the triggering area, by distributing it uniformly over excess, oxygen and not reacted or not condensed oxides.
the whole surface of the counter-electrode 222. Therefore, the nitric acid is collected in diluted by the outlet
0331. The rotation of the impeller 240, due to the centrifu 72, together with the exceeding gas mixture.
gal effect, Sucks gas and vapours from the bottom and pushes 0342. The liquid or cooling gas for the process require
them in the radial direction. In this way, the gases and vapours ments circulates from the inlet 73 and outlet 74 of the con
contained in the Volume of the device are continuously denser 70.
recycled and forced to cross the cold plasma region, with 0343 FIG. 12 shows a detail of the just-described plant
toroidal configuration, as shown by the flow lines 27. 300, herein designated with 301, to be used with the reactor
0332 The cold plasma generator devices and the related 202 of FIG. 4.
reactors according to the above-described embodiments and 0344 FIG. 13 shows a second embodiment of a plant for
variants are conceived, as already said, to be used in the producing di nitric acid, in this case designated as a whole
process chemical industry, in particular in a chemical plant with 302.
for producing nitric or Sulphuric acid. 0345 The plant 302 comprises, apart from the compo
0333 FIGS. 11 to 15 refer, each one, to an embodiment of nents already described for the plant 300, a liquid-gas atmo
a plant for producing nitric acid and to a related method or spheric separator 80, arranged downstream of the condenser
process. T0.
0334 By firstly referring to FIG. 11, a plant 300 for pro 0346. The condensed product and the gases coming from
ducing nitric acid comprises a reactor according to anyone of the condenser 70 are indeed inserted into the separator 80.
the above-described embodiments and variants, designated in The latter can be under the form of a simple tank wherein the
general with 200. The outlets of such reactor 200 designated gases set free from the condensate and outgo from the outlet
with 130 and 120 respectively refer to an inlet of conductive 82, whereas the condensed product is collected onto the bot
liquid, in particular deionised water, and to an inlet of air tom and outgoes from the outlet 81.
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

0347 FIG. 14 shows a third embodiment of plant for pro 0362 Downstream of the cooler(s)-recuperator(s) 35 one
ducing nitric acid, in this case designated as a whole with 303. or more reactors of the already described type are provided,
0348. The plant 303 comprises, apart from the compo even in this case designated with 200 and having an inlet 120
nents already described for the the plant 300, a fog reactor 90 of deionised water or other conductive liquid. An inlet 122 for
and a contact reactor 40. the fumes, an inlet 123 of secondary oxygen and an inlet 124
0349. In particular, the condensed product--the gases com of oxides and oxygen not reacted and recirculated in the
ing from the condenser 70 are sent to the inlet 91 of a reactor reactors 200 are further provided on the reactor 200. At outlet
90 wherein a fog is generated constituted by very fine small 100, vapours of sulphuric acid-i-oxides and not reacted oxy
drops of still deionised water. The deionised water is inserted gen.
in the due quantities through the inlet 93 and finely pulverised 0363. In case of implementation in metal, even in this case
by a set of spray nozzles 94. The mixture of condensate and the choice of the metallic material of such reactors depends
gases inserted into the fog reactor 90 is subjected to an addi upon the chemical resistance to the Sulphur acid vapours.
tional cooling due to adiabatic effect. 0364 Downstream of the reactor 200 a condenser cooler
0350 Embodiment variants can provide an alternative of acid vapours 70 of the already described type is provided.
cooling and/or condensing device to the herein considered Even in this case several condensers, instead of only one, can
fog reactor. be provided.
0351. Through an outlet 92 of the fog reactor 90, the 0365. At the inlet 71 of the condenser 70 vapours of not
condensed product and the gases pass in the contact reactor reacted Sulphuric acid-i-oxides and oxygen enter and at the
40, which is sized for a residence time of several minutes and outlet 72 not reacted condensed sulphuric acid-i-oxides and
up to few hours. During the stay in the contact reactor 40 the OXygen.
condensed product which is collected onto the bottom is 0366 Downstream of the condenser 70 one fog reactor (or
continuously recycled thanks to a set of pumps 43 Sucking several fog reactors) 90 of the already described type is pro
from the lower portion through an outlet 44 and which re vided, at the inlet 91 thereof not reacted condensate sulphuric
enters it in the high portion of the reactor 40 through an inlet acid-i-oxides and oxygen are adducted and at the outlet 92 of
42. not reacted condensed Sulphuric acid-i-oxides and oxygen and
0352. The condensed product is pulverised in the reactor water fog.
40 through a set of nozzles 46, in very fine small drops and so 0367 The latter are adducted into one or more contact
as to increase enormously the liquid-gas interface Surface. reactors 40 of the already described type.
The recirculation ratio can vary from 1 and up to 20 times the 0368. At the lower outlet 45 liquid sulphuric acid is
rate of the condensed product entering from the fog reactor. obtained. Not reacted oxides and oxygen outgo from the
0353. This recirculation allows a strict and more pro upper outlet 41.
longed contact between the residual gases existing at the inlet 0369. In this case, an outlet 47 is provided for sucking not
and the condensed diluted acid, with formation of additional reacted oxides and oxygen from the contact reactor 40 for the
acid by reaction between the water and the nitrogen oxides recirculation in the reactor 200. Then, there is a fan or blower
and the oxygen not reacted in the preceding steps, thus or compressor or equivalent means 48 for the recirculation.
increasing the final concentration of the acid which is col 0370. The sulphur, under the liquid or solid form, is burnt
lected onto the bottom of the reactor 40 and which is dis in the burner 30 with inletting of oxygen in almost stoichio
charged through a lower outlet 45. metric proportions for the formation of Sulphur Dioxide SO2,
0354 The exceeding gases and the not reacted gases are according to the following reaction:
discharged through an upper outlet 41.
0355 FIG. 15 shows a preferred embodimentofa plant for 0371. The required oxygen is produced locally with suit
producing Sulphuric acid, in this case designated as a whole able molecular sieves or other technique. The combustion
with 304.
0356. The plant 304 comprises one or more sulphur burn fumes, constituted by SO2, enter the cooler-recuperator 2 in
ers 30, preferably wholly made of metallic material. The order to be brought up to a temperature of about 70-100° C.
choice of the specific metallic material depends upon the 0372. The heat recovered by the cooler-recuperator 35 can
chemical resistance to the vapours of Sulphur oxides. be used to produce vapour or overheated air to be used in other
portion to produce electric energy or mechanical driving
0357 The burners 30 provide an oxygen inlet 31 and a force, however necessary to the process.
liquid or solid sulphur inlet 32. In the latter case, the inlet 32 0373 The cooled-down fumes of SO2 enter the plasma
can be shaped as a hopper. reactor 200. Even deionised water and additional oxygen
0358. At the outlet 33 from the burners 30 fumes of sul enter the reactor 200, in order to obtain the following final
phur oxides are obtained. The latter are adducted to an inlet 34 formation reaction:
of one or more coolers-recuperators 35.
0359 The latter are coolers-recuperators of sulphur acid
vapours with production of water vapour or overheated air, 0374. In the reactor 200 the fumes, the oxygen and the not
preferably wholly made of metallic material. The choice of reacted water fog coming from the contact reactor 40 are also
the specific metallic material depends upon the chemical recirculated.
resistance to the vapours of Sulphur oxides. 0375 Vapours of sulphuric acid--sulphur oxide, oxygen
0360. At an outlet 36 from the cooler(s)-recuperator(s) 35 and water vapour not reacted attemperature higher than 100°
cooled fumes are obtained. C. outgo from the reactor 200 and then they go to a second
0361. The cooler(s)-recuperator(s) 35 further provide an condenser 70, wherein they are cooled down with water or air
inlet 37 of water or cooling air and an outlet 38 of water to bring them attemperature of about 50-70° C.
vapour or overheated air, which can be subjected evento other 0376 Condensed acid--sulphur oxide and oxygen outgo
USS. from the condenser 74 which go to the fog reactor 90, wherein
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

a small additional quantity of deionised water, and finely electrode 51 and at least partially immersed in the liquid
pulverised by means of a set of spray nozzles 94, is inserted. electrode 522. The liquid electrode 522 preferably will be
0377 The mixture of condensed product and gases used to cool down the gas entering the plasma generation
inserted into the fog reactor 90 is subjected to a second cool region 521 by generating a vapour entering the plasma gen
ing due to the adiabatic effect. eration region 521. Advantageously in this embodiment the
0378 after the fog reactor, the condensed product and the distance between the first 51 and second 522 electrode could
gases pass into the contact reactor 40, which is sized for a be adjusted by controlling the level of the liquid electrode
residence time of several minutes and up to few hours. 522.
0379. During the permanence in the contact reactor the 0390 According to a preferred embodiment, the elec
condensed product which is collected onto the bottom is trodes of the generator device 101, 102 of the chemical pro
continuously recycled thanks to a set of pumps 43 sucking on cess could be guided at a maximum rotation speed of about
the lower side through the outlet 44 and it re-enters it on the 2800 revolutions per minute, for example by using the above
upper side of the reactor 40 through the inlet 42. described driving means.
0380. The condensed product is pulverised in the reactor 0391. In the chemical process of the present invention a
by means of the set of nozzles 46 in very fine small drops and gas is inserted through the plasma generation region 121
So as to increase enormously the liquid-gas interface Surface. described above so as to obtain a plasma gas.
0381. The recirculation ratio can vary from 1 and up to 20 0392 According to an embodiment of the chemical pro
times the rated of the condensed product entering from the fog cess of the present invention, a portion of the plasma gas
reactor 90. which has crossed the plasma generation region 121 is recir
0382. This recirculation allows a strict and more pro culated in the region itself.
longed contact between the residual gases existing at the inlet 0393 Preferably the portion of the recirculation plasma
and the condensed diluted acid, with formation of additional gas is in a ratio comprised in a range 1:10 up to 10:1 with
acid by reaction between the water and the sulphur oxides and respect to the plasma gas which leaves the generator device or
the oxygen not reacted in the preceding steps, thus increasing the acid which leaves the reactor apparatus towards further
the final concentration of the acid collected by the lower steps of the process. The recirculation could take place, for
outlet 45. example, by means of the recirculation outlet doors described
0383. The exceeding gases and the not reacted gases are above and arranged in the reactor apparatus as illustrated
discharged through the upper outlet 41. above.
0384 All inlets, outlets and the ports mentioned above 0394 The chemical process of the present invention could
with reference to the generator devices, reactors and plants comprise an additional step of condensing the acid and gas/
can be under the form of ducts, blocks or other. vapour generated in the reactor apparatus, for example by
0385 Additional subject of the present invention is a using a condenser 70 according to anyone of the above
chemical process for producing an acid by means of cold described embodiments and in case a liquid-gas separation
plasma, preferably nitric or Sulphuric acid. step downstream of said condensing step. In Such liquid-gas
0386 The cold plasma can be generated with a generator separation step a liquid-gas atmospherical separator 80 could
device 101, 102 according to anyone of the herein described be used arranged as described above. The chemical process
embodiments, preferably comprised in an reactor apparatus could further comprise at least an additional cooling step
201, 202 according to anyone of the herein described embodi downstream of the condensing step, preferably said addi
mentS. tional cooling step could take place in a fog reactor 90 accord
0387 According to an embodiment in the process of the ing to the anyone of the above-described embodiments.
present invention a generator device is used, comprising an 0395. The chemical process could further provide a fur
outer electrode 2 and an inner electrode 1 arranged so that the ther reaction step apt to increase the acid production down
outer electrode 2 surrounds the inner electrode 1 and so as to stream of said condensing step and preferably downstream of
define therebetween a plasma generation region 121. The the cooling step. The increase in the acid production could be
inner 1 and/or outer 2 electrodes are fed by a power source 15, obtained by providing, for example, an increase in the contact
16 so that a difference in electric potential is established Surface between condensed acid and vapours in a contact
therebetween at the plasma generation region 121. The elec reactor 40 according to anyone of the above-described
trodes rotate one with respect to the other one, preferably the embodiments.
inner electrode 1 is rotatable and the outer electrode 2 is fixed. 0396 According to an advantageous embodiment, the
0388. The outer 2 and inner 1 electrodes of the generator chemical process of the present invention is used to produce
could be arranged so that the respective longitudinal axes L HSO, for example according to the present reaction:
are Substantially parallel or coincident and the common direc
tion of said axes preferably corresponds also to that of an axis
A of relative rotation. The outer 2 and inner 1 electrodes for 0397. The process could provide a step for producing sul
example can be arranged coaxially or eccentrically with a phur fumes, for example in a Sulphur burner, apt to produce
longitudinal axis L of the inner electrode 1 substantially ver Sulphur fumes and arranged upstream of the reactor apparatus
tical. wherein the reaction for forming the Sulphuric acid takes
0389. According to an embodiment, in the process agen place. The sulphur fumes, before their inletting in the plasma
erator is used, whose second electrode is a liquid electrode generation region 121, can be subjected to a cooling step in a
522, preferably in this embodiment the generator device 111, cooling device as described above and then inserted into the
112, 113 will be arranged so that a longitudinal axis L of the reactor apparatus according to anyone of the above-described
first electrode 51 is substantially parallel to the free surface 18 embodiments. The oxygen necessary to the reaction for
of the liquid electrode 522. A main body 52, as described example could be produced locally with suitable molecular
above, could be further provided, which encloses the first sieves or other technique.
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

0398. According to another preferred embodiment, the arranged so that a longitudinal axis (L) of said first electrode
chemical process of the present invention is used to produce (51) is substantially parallel to the free surface (18) of said
HNO, by inserting atmospherical air in a reactor apparatus liquid electrode (522).
according to anyone of the herein described embodiments, in 6. The chemical process according to any of the preceding
such reactor nitric acid will be formed according to the fol claims, providing that a main body (52) encloses said first
lowing reaction: electrode (51) and it is at least partially immersed in said
liquid electrode (522).
7. The chemical process according to any of the preceding
0399. The chemical process subject of the present inven claims, wherein the liquid electrode (522) is used to cool the
tion preferably will be performed in a plant according to gas entering said plasma generation region (521), preferably
anyone of the above-described embodiments. generating vapour which enters said plasma generation
0400. The generator device, the reactor apparatus and the region (521).
plant of the invention could be used for producing any chemi 8. The chemical process according to any of the preceding
cal Substance, intermediate products included, according to claims, wherein a distance between said first (51) and second
the specific inlet Substances. (522) electrode is adjusted by controlling the level of said
04.01 The invention can be applied in all process technolo liquid electrode (522).
gies related to the use of atmospherical cold plasma, for 9. A chemical process for producing a chemical Substance,
producing compounds Such as nitric acid, Sulphuric acid, in particular any of an acid, nitric acid, Sulphuric acid, ammo
calcium nitrate, ammonium Sulphate, ammonium nitrate, nium nitrate, ammonium Sulphate, calcium nitrate, NO, NO,
NO, NO2, NOx, and so on, as well as any other chemical NO., NO, or oxidized VOCs, in a reactor apparatus (201.
process which could be developed with this technology. 202) by means of cold plasma,
0402. The present invention has been sofar described with wherein said cold plasma is generated in a generator device
reference to preferred embodiments. It is to be meant that (101, 102) of said reactor apparatus (201, 202) which
other embodiments may exist, belonging to the same inven comprises an outer electrode (2) and an inner electrode
tive core, as defined by the protection scope of the herebelow (1) arranged one Surrounding the other so as to define
reported claims. between them a plasma generation region (121),
1. A chemical process for producing a chemical Substance, which inner (1) and/or outer (2) electrodes are fed by a
in particular any of an acid, nitric acid, Sulphuric acid, ammo power source (15, 16) so that a difference in electric
nium nitrate, ammonium Sulphate, calcium nitrate, NO, NO, potential is established between them at said plasma
NO, N, O, or oxidized VOCs, in a reactor apparatus (211, .. generation region (121),
.., 214) by means of cold plasma, wherein said inner (1) and outer (2) electrodes rotate one
wherein said cold plasma is generated in a generator device with respect to the other,
(111,112, 113) of said reactor apparatus (211,..., 214) wherein a gas is made to cross said plasma generation
which comprises a first electrode (51) and a second region (121) So as to obtain a plasma gas,
electrode (522) arranged one with respect to the other wherein a portion of said plasma gas which has crossed
one so as to define between them a plasma generation said plasma generation region (121) is recirculated into
region (521), said plasma generation region (121),
which first (51) and/or second (522) electrode are fed by a wherein said outer electrode (2) has an additional outlet
power source (15, 16) so that a difference in electric port (10) of plasma gas, arranged downstream of at least
potential is established between them at said plasma one outlet recirculating port (5) with respect to the flow
generation region (521), of plasma gas.
wherein a gas is made to cross said plasma generation 10. The chemical process according to claim 9, wherein
region (521) So as to obtain a plasma gas, said inner electrode (1) is rotatable and said outer electrode
wherein said second electrode (522) is a liquid electrode, (2) is made fixed.
11. The chemical process according to claim 9 or 10,
wherein said first electrode (51) is rotatable and preferably wherein both said outer (2) and inner (1) electrodes are rotat
driven at a maximal rotational speed of about 2800 able.
rounds per minute. 12. The chemical process according to any of the claims 9
2. The chemical process according to claim 1, wherein said to 11, wherein said outer (2) and inner (1) electrodes are
plasma gas which has crossed said plasma generation region arranged so that the respective longitudinal axes (L) are Sub
(521) is recirculated into said plasma generation region (521). stantially parallel or coincident, the common direction of said
3. The chemical process according to the preceding claim, axes preferably corresponding also to that of an axis (A) of
wherein the recirculated portion of said plasma gas is in a relative rotation.
ratio comprised in a range 1:10 up to 10:1 to the plasma gas 13. The chemical process according to the preceding claim,
which leaves the generator device or the chemical Substance, wherein said outer (2) and inner (1) electrodes are coaxially
in particular the acid, which leaves the reactor apparatus arranged.
towards further steps of the process. 14. The chemical process according to claim 12, wherein
4. The chemical process according to any of the preceding said outer (2) and inner (1) electrodes are eccentrically-ar
claims, wherein said generator device (111, 112, 113) is ranged.
arranged with a longitudinal axis (L) of said Substantially 15. The chemical process according to any of the claims 9
horizontal first electrode (51). to 14, wherein said generator device (101, 102) is arranged
5. The chemical process according to the preceding claim, with a longitudinal axis (L) of said inner electrode (1) sub
wherein said at least a generator device (111, 112, 113) is stantially vertical.
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

16. The chemical process according to any of the claims 9 31. A generator device (111, 112, 113) of cold plasma,
to 15, wherein one of said electrodes (1, 2) of said generator Suitable for use in a process, in particular for producing any
device (101, 102) is driven at a maximal rotational speed of of an acid, nitric acid, Sulphuric acid, ammonium nitrate,
about 2800 rounds per minute. ammonium sulphate, calcium nitrate, NO, NO, NO,
17. The chemical process according to any of the claims 9 NO, or oxidized VOCs,
to 16, wherein the recirculated portion of said plasma gas is in which device (111, 112, 113) comprises a first electrode
a ratio comprised in a range 1:10 up to 10:1 to the plasma gas (51) and a second electrode (52.522), arranged so as to
which leaves the generator device or the chemical Substance, define between them a plasma generation region (521),
in particular the acid, which leaves the reactor apparatus which first (51) and/or second (52.522) electrode are con
towards further steps of the process. nected or connectable to a power source (515, 516) so
18. The chemical process according to any of the claims 9 that, in use, a difference in electric potential is estab
to 17, wherein one of said inner (1) and outer (2) electrodes of lished at said plasma generation region (521),
said generator device (101,102) is at least partially immersed which device (111, 112, 113) has an inlet port (58,55) for
in a conductive liquid. a gas which has to cross said plasma generation region
19. The chemical process according to the preceding claim, (521) and at least a recirculation port (55, 58) for the
wherein said at least a generator device (101,102) is arranged plasma gas which has crossed said plasma generation
so that a longitudinal axis (L) of said inner electrode (1) is region (521),
substantially perpendicular to the free surface (18) of said the device (111, 112, 113) being configured so that said
conductive liquid. second electrode (52.522) is a liquid electrode,
20. The chemical process according to any of the claims 9 wherein said first electrode (51) is rotatable.
to 19, whereina conductive liquid is used to cool down the gas 32. The generator device (111) according to claim 31,
entering said plasma generation region (121), preferably gen comprising a main body (52), said first electrode (51) being at
erating vapour which enters said plasma generation region least partially received within said main body (52).
(121). 33. The generator device (111) according to the preceding
21. The chemical process according to any of the claims 9 claim, wherein said inlet port (58, 55) and/or said at least a
to 20, comprising a condensing step for the acid and gas/ recirculating outlet port (55, 58) are obtained on said main
vapour generated in said reactor apparatus. body (52).
22. The chemical process according to the preceding claim, 34. The generator device (111) according to the preceding
further comprising a liquid-gas separation step downstream claim, wherein said inlet port (58.55) or said at least a recir
of said condensing step. culating outlet port (55,58) is arranged at an end, preferably
23. The chemical process according to claim 21, further at a base, of said main body (52).
comprising at least a cooling step downstream of said con 35. The generator device (111) according to claim 33 or 34,
densing step, preferably a fog-cooling step. wherein said at least a recirculating outlet port (55, 58) and
24. The chemical process according to claim 21 or 23, said inlet port (58.55) are arranged at a lateral wall or skirt of
comprising an additional reaction step apt to increase the acid said main body (52).
production, wherein the additional reaction step is provided 36. The generator device (111) according to any of claims
downstream of said condensing step and preferably down 33 to 35, wherein said at least a recirculating outlet port (55.
stream of said at least a cooling step. 58) defines an outlet area substantially equal to, or greater
25. The chemical process according to the preceding claim, than, the cross section area of said main body (52).
wherein said additional reaction step provides for an increase 37. The generator device (111) according to any of claims
in the contact surface between condensed acid and gas/va 31 to 36, wherein said main body (52) has a plurality of
pours, preferably by using nebulisation or spraying means. recirculation outlet ports (55) for the plasma gas, which ports
(55) are preferably arranged at a lateral wall or skirt of said
26. The chemical process according to claim 24 or 25, main body (52).
wherein said additional reaction step provides for a recircu 38. The generator device (111) according to any of claims
lation of condensed acid.
31 a 37, wherein said main body (52) and said first electrode
27. The chemical process according to any of the claims 21 (51) are arranged so that respective longitudinal axes (L) are
to 23, further comprising a recirculation step of gases/vapours substantially parallel or coincident, wherein preferably the
from said additional reaction step of said generator device common direction of said axes also corresponds to that of an
(111, 112, 113). axis of rotation (A) of said first electrode (51).
28. The chemical process according to any of the preceding 39. The generator device (111) according to the preceding
claims, wherein said acid is H2SO4 and wherein the process claim, wherein said main body (52) and said first electrode
comprises a step for producing Sulphur fumes, the latter being (51) are coaxially-arranged.
the input gas crossing said plasma generation region (521) of 40. The generator device (113) according to claim 38,
said generator device (111; 112, 113). wherein said main body (52) and said first electrode (51) are
29. The chemical process according to the preceding claim, eccentrically-arranged.
comprising at least a cooling step of said Sulphur fumes 41. The generator device (111) according to any of claims
before their inletting into said plasma generation region 32 to 40, wherein said main body (52) and/or said first elec
(521). trode (51) have a substantially cylindrical geometry.
30. The chemical process according to any of the preceding 42. The generator device (111) according to any of claims
claims, wherein said acid is nitric acid and wherein the input 32 to 41, wherein the cross section area of said main body (52)
gas crossing said plasma generation region (521) of said is about 25 to 100 times greater than the cross section of said
generator device (111, 112, 113) is air. first electrode (51).
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

43. The generator device (111) according to any of claims 58. A generator assembly, comprising:
32 to 42, wherein said main body (52) and said first electrode a generator device (111, 112, 113) according to any of the
(51) have both a substantially circular cross section and preceding claims, and
wherein the diameter of said main body (52) is about 5 to 10 a high frequency or tension electric generator of connected
times greater than the diameter of said first electrode (51). or connectable to said first (51) and/or second (52, 522)
44. The generator device (111) according to any of claims electrode of said generator device (111, 112, 113).
32 to 43, wherein said main body (52) has at least a liquid 59. The generator assembly according to the preceding
inlet port (555), preferably arranged at a side wall or skirt claim, further comprising a motor apt to drive in rotation one
thereof, the arrangement being such that said liquid-inlet port of said electrodes (51, 52,522) of said generator device (111,
(555) allows said main body (52) to be partially immersed 112, 113), preferably at a maximal speed of about 2800 revo
into the liquid electrode (522). lutions per minute.
60. A reactor apparatus (211: ... ; 214), suitable for use in
45. The generator device (111) according to the preceding a process, in particular for producing an acid, nitric acid,
claim, wherein said at least a liquid-inlet port (555) and said Sulphuric acid, ammonium Sulphate calcium nitrate, NO.
at least a recirculating outlet port (55, 58) are arranged at NO, NO, N, O, or oxidized VOCs,
respective portions of said main body (52) substantially which apparatus (211: . . . ; 214) comprises at least a
orthogonal one to the other one. generator device (111, 112, 113) or generator assembly
46. The generator device (111) according to any of claims according to any of the preceding claims, and wherein
31 to 45, wherein said first electrode (51) is shaft-shaped. the device (211: ..., 214) has at least an outlet port (510)
47. The generator device (111) according to any of claims for outputting a gas/vapour obtained in said reactor
31 to 46, wherein said first electrode (51) is fixed onto a apparatus by a reaction involving the plasma gas gener
rotatable shaft (501), the latter preferably receive within said ated in said at least a generator device (111; 112, 113).
main body (52). 61. The reactor apparatus (211) according to the preceding
48. The generator device (111) according to any of claims claim, which apparatus (211) has a tank region (580) apt to
31 to 47, wherein said first electrode (51) is arranged substan receive the liquid electrode (522) of said at least a generator
tially parallel to a free surface (518) of said liquid electrode device (111, 112, 113).
(522). 62. The reactor apparatus (211) according to claim 60 or
49. The generator device (111) according to any of claims 61, comprising an external casing (511), said at least agen
31 to 48, comprising gas intaking means (54), apt to draw gas erator device (111, 112, 113) being at least partially arranged
through said plasma generation region (521). inside said casing (511).
50. The generator device (111) according to the preceding 63. The reactor apparatus (211) according to claims 61 and
claim, wherein said gas intaking means (54) comprises a rotor 62, wherein said casing (511) defines said tank region (580).
or impeller, the latter being preferably connected, more pref 64. The reactor apparatus (211) according to claim 62 or
63, wherein said casing (511) has a conductive liquid inlet
erably fixed, to said first rotatable electrode (51), wherein said (513) and a gas inlet (512), preferably arranged one adjacent
rotor or impeller is preferably made at least partially of a to the other.
plastic material. 65. The reactor apparatus (211) according to any of claims
51. The generator device (112) according to claims 39 to 50 60 to 64, wherein said casing (511) has an outlet (510) of the
when dependent from claim 2, wherein said gas intaking gas/vapour, preferably arranged at a top portion thereof.
means comprises a rotor or impeller (64), preferably a cen 66. The reactor apparatus (211) according to any of claims
trifugal rotor or impeller, arranged outside said main body 60 to 65, comprising means (518) for controlling and/or
(52). adjusting the level of said liquid electrode (522).
52. The generator device (111) according to claim 40 or 41, 67. The reactor apparatus (211) according to any of claims
when dependent from claim 2, wherein said gas intaking 60 to 66, comprising a plurality of generator devices (111;
means comprises a rotor or impeller (54) which has a diam 112; 113) and/or generator assemblies each one according to
eter comprised in a range of about 70-95%, more preferably any of claims 58 to 59.
of about 60-90%, of an internal diameter of said main body 68. The reactor apparatus (211) according to any of claims
(52). 60 to 67, wherein said at least a generator device (111; 112:
53. The generator device (111) according to any of claims 113) is arranged so that a longitudinal axis (L) of said first
31 to 52, comprising sliding electrical contact means (558) electrode (51) is substantially horizontal.
associated to said first electrode (51). 69. A chemical plant (300, ... , 305), comprising:
54. The generator device (111) according to any of claims a reactor apparatus (211. . . . , 214) according to any of
31 to 53, comprising triggering means (53) for triggering a claims 60 to 68 or a generator device (111, 112, 113)
discharge between said first (51) and second (52, 522) elec according to any of claims 31 to 57;
trode. a condenser (70), operatively connected to said reactor
55. The generator device (111) according to the preceding apparatus (211. . . . , 214) or to said generator device
(111, 112, 113) to receive as an input the gases/vapours
claim, wherein said triggering means (53) is connected, pref outputted therefrom.
erably fixed, to said first electrode (51). 70. The chemical plant (302) according to claim 69, further
56. The generator device (101) according to claim 45 or 46, comprising a liquid-gas separator (80), arranged downstream
wherein said triggering means (53) is based upon a point of said condenser (70).
effect. 71. The chemical plant (303: 304) according to claim 69,
57. The generator device (101) according to any of claims further comprising at least a cooling device (90) arranged
45 to 47, wherein said triggering means (53) is substantially downstream of said condenser (70), which cooling device(s)
comb-shaped. preferably comprises a fog reactor (90).
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

72. The chemical plant (303:304) according to claim 69 or 82. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
71, further comprising at least a contact reactor (40) arranged 79 to 81, wherein said outer (2) and inner (1) electrodes are
downstream of said condenser (70) and preferably down arranged so that the respective longitudinal axes (L) are Sub
stream of said at least a cooling device (90). stantially parallel or coincident, the common direction of said
73. The chemical plant (303:304) according to the preced axes preferably corresponding also to that of an axis (A) of
ing claim, wherein said contact reactor (40) comprises recir relative rotation.
culation means (42-44) of the condensed product. 83. The generator device (101) according to claim 82,
74. The chemical plant (304) according to claim 72 or 73, wherein said outer (2) and inner (1) electrodes are coaxially
further comprising connection means (47. 48, 124) between arranged.
said contact reactor (40) and said reactor apparatus (211: ... 84. The generator device (113) according to claim 82,
, 214) apt to adduct a gas from the contact reactor (40) in the wherein said outer (2) and inner (1) electrodes are eccentri
reactor apparatus (211, ..., 214). cally-arranged.
75. The chemical plant (303; 304) according to any of 85. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
claims 72 to 74, wherein said cooling device (90) and/or said 79 to 84, wherein said outer (2) and inner (1) electrodes have
contact reactor(s) (40) comprises nebulisation means (94.46) a Substantially cylindrical geometry.
of a condensed product received in said device(s). 86. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
76. The chemical plant (304) according to claim 69, further 79 to 85, wherein said inner electrode (1) is shaft-shaped.
comprising at least a Sulphur burner (30), apt to produce
Sulphur fumes and arranged upstream of said reactor appara 87. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
tus (201, 202). 79 to 86, comprising an intermediate support (7) of said inner
77. The chemical plant (304) according to the preceding electrode (1), wherein said intermediate support (7) is apt to
claim, comprising at least a cooling device (35) arranged guarantee the electrical insulation between said two elec
downstream of said burner(s) (30) and upstream of said reac trodes (1,2).
tor apparatus (201, 202). 88. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
78. The chemical plant according to any of claims 61 to 69. 79 to 87, wherein the cross section area of said outer electrode
which is a plant for producing nitric or Sulphuric acid. (2) is about 25 to 100 times greater than the cross section of
79. The cold plasma generator device, said inner electrode (1).
Suitable for use in a process, in particular for producing any 89. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
ofan acid, nitric acid, Sulphuric acid, ammonium nitrate, 79 to 88, wherein said outer (2) and inner (1) electrodes have
ammonium sulphate, calcium nitrate, NO, NO, NO, both a substantially circular section and wherein the diameter
NO, or oxidized VOCs, of said outer electrode (2) is about 5 to 10 times greater than
which device (101, 102) comprises: the diameter of said inner electrode (1).
an outer electrode (2) and an inner electrode (1), 90. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
arranged one surrounding the other one so as to define 79 to 89, wherein said inner electrode (1) has a substantially
between them a plasma generation region (121), circular section, preferably with a diameter comprised in a
wherein said inner (1) and/or outer (2) electrodes are range of about 20-200 mm.
connected or connectable to a power source (15, 16) 91. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
so that, in use, a difference in electric potential is 79 to 90, wherein said outer electrode (2) and/or said inner
established at said plasma generation region (121), electrode (1) have a length equal to, or greater than, about 200
wherein the inner (1) and outer (2) electrodes are rotat .
able one with respect to the other, 92. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
wherein said outer electrode (2) has an inlet port (8) for 79 to 91, wherein said gas inlet port (8) is arranged at an end,
a gas which has to cross said plasma generation region preferably at a base, of said outer electrode (2).
(121) and at least a recirculating outlet port (5) of the 93. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
plasma gas which has crossed said plasma generation 79 to 92, wherein said at least a recirculating outlet port (5) is
region (121); arranged at a lateral wall or skirt of said outer electrode (2).
triggering means (3, 3a) for triggering a discharge
between said outer (1) and inner (2) electrode, said 94. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
triggering means (3, 3a) being connected, preferably 79 to 93, wherein said at least a recirculating outlet port (5)
fixed, to a revolving electrode (1), of said two elec defines an outlet area Substantially equal to, or greater than,
trodes (1,2); and the area of a cross section of said outer electrode (2).
gas intaking means (4), apt to draw gas through said 95. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
plasma generation region (121), said gas intaking 79 to 94, wherein said outer electrode (2) has a plurality of
means (4) being connected, preferably fixed, to a recirculation outlet ports (5) for the plasma gas, which ports
revolving electrode (1) of said two electrodes (1, 2), (5) are preferably arranged in a lateral wall or skirt of said
wherein said outer electrode (2) has an additional outlet outer electrode (2).
port (10) of plasma gas, arranged downstream of at least 96. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
an outlet recirculating port (5) with respect to the flow of 79 to 95, wherein said outer electrode (2) has an additional
plasma gas. outlet port (10) of plasma gas, arranged downstream of at
80. The generator device (101) according to claim 79, least an outlet recirculating port (5) with respect to the flow of
wherein said inner electrode (1) is rotatable. plasma gas.
81. The generator device (101) according to claim 79 or 80, 97. The generator device (101) according to any of claims
wherein both said outer (2) and inner (1) electrodes are rotat 79 to 96, wherein said additional port (10) is arranged at a
able. lateral wall or skirt of said outer electrode (2).
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016

98. The generator device (101) according to any of claims tric generator connected or connectable to said inner
79 to 97, wherein said triggering means (3) is fixed to a electrode (1) and/or outer (2) of said generator device
revolving electrode (1) of said electrodes (1, 2). (101, 102),
99. The generator device (101) according to any of claims said apparatus (201; 202) having a tank region (180) apt to
79 to 98, wherein said triggering means (3) is based upon the receive a conductive liquid, the arrangement being Such
point effect. that one of said inner (1) and outer (2) electrodes of said
100. The generator device (101) according to any of claims generator device (101, 102) is at least partially received
79 to 99, wherein said triggering means (3) is substantially in said tank region (180), and, in use, immersed in the
comb shaped. conductive liquid,
101. The generator device (101) according to any of claims wherein the apparatus (201, 202) has at least an outlet port
79 to 100, wherein said gas intaking means comprises a rotor (510) for outputting gas/vapour obtained in said reactor
or impeller (4) which is fixed to a revolving electrode (1) of apparatus by a reaction involving the plasma gas gener
said inner (1) and outer (2) electrodes, wherein said rotor or ated in said at least a generator device.
impeller (4) is preferably made at least partially of a plastic 106. The reactor apparatus (201) according to the preced
material. ing claim, comprising an external casing (11), said at least a
102. The generator device (101) according to claim 101, generator device (101; 102) being at least partially arranged
wherein said gas intaking means comprises a rotor or impeller inside said casing (11).
(4) fixed to said inner electrode (1), wherein the rotor or 107. The reactor apparatus (201) according to the preced
impeller (4) preferably has a diameter comprised in a range of ing claim, wherein said casing (11) defines said tank region
about 70-95%, more preferably of about 60-90%, of an inter (180), the latter being preferably substantially bulb- or basin
nal diameter of said outer electrode (2). shaped.
103. A generator assembly, comprising: 108. The reactor apparatus (201) according to claim 105 or
a generator device (101,102) according to any of claims 79 106, wherein said casing (11) has a conductive liquid inlet
to 102, and (13) and a gas inlet (12), preferably arranged at opposite
a high frequency or tension electric generator connected or sides.
connectable to said inner (1) and/or outer (2) electrode 109. The reactor apparatus (201) according to any of claims
of said generator device (101, 102). 105 to 108, wherein said inner electrode (1) is arranged so
104. The generator assembly according to the preceding that, in use, it is at least partially immersed in the conductive
claim, further comprising a motor apt to drive the rotation of liquid received in said tank region (180).
said electrodes (1, 2) of said generator device (101, 102), 110. The reactor apparatus (201) according to any of claims
preferably at a maximal speed of about 2800 revolutions per 105 to 109, wherein said at least agenerator device (101; 102)
minute. is arranged so that a longitudinal axis (L) thereof, preferably
105. The reactor apparatus (201: 202), a longitudinal axis of said inner electrode (1), is Substantially
Suitable for use in a process, in particular for producing an perpendicular to the free surface (18) of said conductive liq
acid, nitric acid, Sulphuric acid, ammonium Sulphate uid.
calcium nitrate, NO, NO, NO, N, O, or oxidized 111. The reactor apparatus (201) according to any of claims
VOCs, 105 to 110, comprising means (18) for controlling and/or
which apparatus (201; 202) comprises at least a generator adjusting the level of said conductive liquid inside said tank
device (101, 102) comprising: region (180).
an outer electrode (2) and an inner electrode (1), 112. The reactor apparatus (201) according to any of claims
arranged one surrounding the other one so as to define 105 to 111, wherein said at least a generator device (101; 102)
between them a plasma generation region (121), is arranged so that a longitudinal axis (L) of said inner elec
wherein said inner (1) and/or outer (2) electrodes are trode (1) is substantially vertical.
connected or connectable to a power source (15, 16) 113. The reactor apparatus (201) according to any of claims
so that, in use, a difference in electric potential is 105 to 112, comprising a plurality of generator devices (101,
established at said plasma generation region (121), 102) and/or generator assemblies each one according to any
wherein the inner (1) and outer (2) electrodes are rotat of claims 79 to 104.
able one with respect to the other, 114. The apparatus (114) according to any of claims 105 to
wherein said outer electrode (2) has an inlet port (8) for 113, wherein said second electrode is grid-shaped (222).
a gas which has to cross said plasma generation region 115. The apparatus (201: 202: 114) according to any of
(121) and at least a recirculating outlet port (5) of claims 105 to 114, comprising a liquid outlet (17,217), pref
plasma gas which has crossed said plasma generation erably arranged at a lower portion of said casing (11).
region (121); 116. The apparatus (201: 202) according to any of claims
triggering means (3, 3a) for triggering a discharge 105 to 115, comprising means for refrigerating or heating a
between said outer (1) and inner (2) electrode, said reaction environment defined inside said casing (11).
triggering means (3, 3a) being connected, preferably 117. The apparatus (201: 202: 114) according to any of
fixed, to a revolving electrode (1), of said two elec claims 105 to 116, having no inlet ports for liquids.
trodes (1,2); e 118. The apparatus (201: 202: 114) according to any of
gas intaking means (4), apt to draw gas through said claims 105 to 117, further comprising means for dosing nitro
plasma generation region (121), said gas intaking gen and oxygen and/or compression means for storing the gas
means (4) being connected, preferably fixed, to a product under pressure.
revolving electrode (1) of said two electrodes (1, 2), 119. The apparatus (201: 202: 114) according to any of
or a generator assembly comprising said at least generator claims 105 to 118, further comprising fans and/or heat
device (101, 102) and a high frequency or tension elec exchangers.
US 2016/0030912 A1 Feb. 4, 2016
20

120. A chemical plant (300. . . . , 304), comprising: (201, 202), apt to adduct a gas from the contact reactor (40) in
a reactor apparatus (201, 202) according to any of claims the reactor apparatus (201, 202).
105 to 119 or a generator device (101, 102) according to 126. The chemical plant (303: 304) according to any of
any of claims 79 to 103, and claims 122 to 125, wherein said cooling device (90) and/or
a condenser (70), operatively connected to said reactor said contact reactor(s) (40) comprises nebulisation means
apparatus (201, 202) or to said generator device (101, (94, 46) of a condensed product received in said device(s).
102) to receive as an input the gas/vapour outputted 127. The chemical plant (304) according to claim 120,
therefrom. further comprising at least a sulphur burner (30), apt to pro
121. The chemical plant (302) according to claim 120, duce Sulphur fumes and arranged upstream of said reactor
further comprising a liquid-gas separator (80), arranged apparatus (201, 202).
downstream of said condenser (70). 128. The chemical plant (304) according to the preceding
122. The chemical plant (303:304) according to claim 120, claim, comprising at least a cooling device (35) arranged
further comprising at least a cooling device (90) arranged downstream of said burner(s) (30) and upstream of said reac
downstream of said condenser (70), which cooling device tor apparatus (201, 202).
(90) comprises preferably a fog reactor (90). 129. The chemical plant according to any of claims 120 to
123. The chemical plant (303:304) according to claim 120 128, which is a plant for producing nitric or Sulphuric acid.
or 122, further comprising at least a contact reactor (40) 130. A chemical process for producing a chemical Sub
arranged downstream of said condenser (70) and preferably stance, in particular any of an acid, nitric acid, Sulphuric acid,
downstream of said at least a cooling device (90). ammonium nitrate, ammonium Sulphate, calcium nitrate,
124. The chemical plant (303; 304) according to the pre
ceding claim, wherein said contact reactor (40) comprises NO, NO, NO, N, O, or oxidized VOCs, which uses agen
recirculation means (42-44) of the condensed product. erator device (101, 102), a generator assembly, a reactor
125. The chemical plant (304) according to claim 123 or apparatus (201, 202) or a plant (300; . . . , 304) according to
124, further comprising connection means (47, 48, 124) any of the preceding claims.
between said contact reactor (40) and said reactor apparatus k k k k k