Hydrogen production from ethanol decomposition by microwave plasma TIAGO torch

•TIAGO discharges present high tolerance to the entrance of ethanol.•TIAGO discharges exhibits high ethanol conversion (>99.6%).•The key parameters are argon and ethanol flows.•High air flow entering the plasma provokes the formation of H2, H2O and CO2.•Low air flow entering the plasma results in production of H2, C2H2, CO and HCN.

This paper describes the study of molecular hydrogen production from ethanol decomposition by argon microwave TIAGO discharge in air ambiance at atmospheric pressure. In order to estimate the influence of the experimental conditions on the hydrogen production, a wide range of Ar flows, input powers and ethanol flows were tested. The simultaneous use of emission spectroscopy and mass spectrometry techniques allowed us to gain knowledge about the mechanisms which lead to the obtaining of hydrogen and other by-products (C2H2, C(s) …) at the plasma exit. Results showed a great capability of TIAGO discharges to withstand ethanol introduction as well as an almost complete ethanol decomposition (higher than 99.6%) with high hydrogen selectivity; argon and ethanol flows were found to be the key parameters in the by-products formation.

Graphical abstractIn the current research the capability of Ar-TIAGO discharges to decompose ethanol producing molecular hydrogen has been assessed. Depending on argon and ethanol flows different by-products can be obtained. Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide