Status of microwave driven atmospheric plasma for oxidation of hydrocarbons

summary form only given. Initial results on oxidation of volatile organic compounds using a microwave created plasma in a TM/sub 010/ cavity were presented previously (see IEE International Conference on Plasma Science, p.290 (1997). Work has continued with the use of improved diagnostic tools to determine the decomposition efficiency. Investigation of methods to achieve breakdown of air at atmospheric pressure using nominal levels of microwave power are in progress. Certified GC/MS analysis has confirmed a high level of decomposition of 100 ppm of isobutylene (C/sub 4/H/sub 8/) in air. Isobutylene was not detected in the ppb range in the exit gas. Tests on the more complex hydrocarbon toluene are planned. Results on decomposition efficiency as a function of power level, flow rate, and gas temperature will be presented.