A method for activating chemical reactions using a non-thermal capillary discharge
plasma (NT-CDP) unit or a non-thermal slot discharge plasma (NT-SDP) unit (collectively
referred to as "NT-CDP/SDP"). The NT-CDP/SDP unit includes a first electrode disposed
between two dielectric layers, wherein the first electrode and dielectric layers
having at least one opening (e.g., capillary or a slot) defined therethrough. A
dielectric sleeve inserted into the opening, and at least one second electrode
(e.g., in the shape of a pin, ring, metal wire, or tapered metal blade) is disposed
in fluid communication with an associated opening. A non-thermal plasma discharge
is emitted from the opening when a voltage differential is applied between the
first and second electrodes. Chemical feedstock to be treated is then exposed to
the non-thermal plasma. This processing is suited for the following exemplary chemical
reactions as (i) partial oxidation of hydrocarbon feedstock to produce functionalized
organic compounds; (ii) chemical stabilization of a polymer fiber (e.g., PAN fiber
precursor in carbon fiber production; (iii) pre-reforming of higher chain length
petroleum hydrocarbons to generate a feedstock suitable for reforming; (iv) natural
gas reforming in a chemically reducing atmosphere (e.g., ammonia or urea) to produce
carbon monoxide and Hydrogen gas; or (v) plasma enhanced water gas shifting.
