Effect of anode depth and conductivity of electrolyte solution on energy consumption in plasma electrolysis

This research was conducted to investigate the effect of anode depth and conductivity of electrolyte solution on required energy for plasma generation in plasma electrolysis. The experimental parameters were composed of different depth of anodes (0, 15, 25, 45, and 65 mm) and various solution conductivity. The difference in electrolyte solution conductivities is presented by different concentration of Na₂SO₄ (0.01, 0.02, 0.03, and 0.05 M). A batch reactor (diameter 130 mm, height 190 mm) with tungsten electrodes (cathode diameter 6 mm and anode diameter 0.5 mm) was used by applying a continuous cooling system. Current was observed in various voltage (40 - 400 V) for 30 second in each voltage. Energy consumption for vapor formation and discharge plasma found higher at deeper position of anode. At higher conductivity of electrolyte solution, although energy consumption for vapor formation was observed lower, energy consumption for plasma discharged was found higher.