WO2008055684A1 - Process for hazardous wastes remediation using plasma technologies and device for the implementation of such process - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a process, for remediation of chemical and biological species without any possible further recombination of the final products thereof, based on Physical Chemistry in Dynamics of conducting Gases, using Lanthanides (Ln3+), Yttrium (Y3+), Iron (Fe3+), Helium (He), Hydrogen (H2) and Deuterium (D2), as well as other elements such as atomic elements in a Magneto Gas Dynamics (MGD) and Magneto Hydro Dynamics (MHD) System (9) in recycled High Temperature Pulsed and Continuous Powered Plasmas. The process may preferably be implemented in a closed loop type device (6), of toroidal shape or formed of a combination of sections some of which may be linear and some others may be curved or semi-circular, for instance, so that the chemical or biological species remain enough time within the plasma to be neutralized.

Description

Description

PROCESS FOR HAZARDOUS WASTES REMEDIATION USING PLASMA TECHNOLOGIES AND DEVICE FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SUCH

PROCESS Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a process for remediation of chemical and biological species without any possible further recombination of the final products thereof. The process relies on physical-chemical and magneto- dynamic techniques applied to ionized gas (high temperature plasmas), more especially on techniques of plasma creation through RF (Radio

Frequencies) generators, coupled with Magneto Gas Dynamics (MGD) and Magneto Hydro Dynamics (MHD) complexes acting as a motor and/or generator of plasma in confined hot regions of the plasma. [0002] The invention further relates to a device for implementing such process. Background art

[0003] Conventional plasmas processes should reach rates of molecular dissociation between 85% and 95%. These processes use various methods of plasma creation through electro thermal discharges (resistive method) with electrodes or through inductive methods: RF, HF, microwaves and Cyclotron Resonance (CR). The Applicants conducted their own experiments which led them to the conclusion that many of the know devices indeed have rates between 35% and 60% only. [0004] These traditional processes have advantages and inconveniences. [0005] The residual amounts are measured by means of spectroscopic techniques: ICP-AES (ICP-AES: Inductive Coupled Plasma - Atomic

Emission Spectroscopy), ICP-MS (ICP-MS: Inductive Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectroscopy), AAS (AAS: Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy) for the natural elements (metals) and by GC-MS (GC-MS: Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectroscopy) techniques for molecules. [0006] Government agencies require that machines treating highly toxic and dangerous molecules have efficiency rates of 99.9999% to 99.99999% with regard to the destruction of military molecules.

CONFIRMATtON COPY [0007] The advantage of inductive methods (HF, RF, microwaves, CR) is that they stabilize plasmas at high temperatures. However, the time sampling is insufficient and impacts significantly on the efficiency.

[0008] An example of such a plasma device is disclosed in patent publication WO 03/076790 A1 in which the exposure time of the sample is said to be of the order of a pico-second to a nano-second.

[0009] The dispersion and introduction of toxic substances also influence the plasma efficiency.

[0010] Resistive methods (electrodes) have the advantage of creating LTE (Local Thermal Equilibrium) plasma at a very high temperature (5,00OK

<T°K<18,000K) but are too limited by the electrode's surfaces according to the plasmagenous gas utilized.

[001 1] However, the normal or premature wearing down of the electrodes prevents the technique from keeping an LTE condition and only allows the obtaining of an NLTE (Non-Local Thermal Equilibrium) condition.

[0012] So, the temperature gradient is unstable as is the efficiency. Some kinds of residues can be treated successfully, but these resistive methods (electrodes) cannot be applied to highly toxic or bio-hazardous molecules since the required efficiency is 99.9999 to 99.99999%, and cannot be reached with resistive methods nor with classical thermal plasmas (even

R.F.).

Disclosure of the invention

[0013] A purpose of the process according to the invention is to reach a complete dissociation, without any possible further recombination, of semi-organic and/or organic molecules classified as dangerous, including: Bio

Hazardous Molecules, Nerve Gases (NG), Bio-organic Molecules and

Biological Elements (bacteria, DNA-RNA viruses, prions).

[0014] For that purpose, the process relies on physical-chemical and magneto- dynamic techniques applied to high temperature plasmas together with the introduction of atomic elements such as Lanthanides, Yttrium, Iron, Helium and Hydrogen within the plasma. [0015] According to the invention, the plasma has to spend enough time within the enclosed space of the plasma machine for the treated species to be neutralized.

[0016] As a consequence, the process may preferably be implemented in a closed loop type device, preferably of toroidal shape or formed of a combination of sections some of which may be linear and some others may be curved or semi-circular, for instance. Thus a MHD-MGD motor generator coupling allows the recycling and confining of the atomic ionized elements, while keeping a high gradient of temperature (T⁰K: 4,000- 7,000 K) for several minutes (between 3 and 600 seconds according to the molecules to be dissociated) securing N cycles within the plasma machine where 600<N< 14,000 and varies according to the plasma criteria and

MHD-MGD.

[0017] According to the invention, the MHD-MGD recycling of molecular elements combined with the presence of atomic species such as: (Fe3+, Ln3+, Y3+,

He, H2...) allows nearly all toxic and dangerous levels or amounts to remain for an extended period of time inside the hottest area in the plasma created (8,000 - 13,000 K). Moreover, the MGD-MHD system can produce electric energy engendering a better exploitation of the plasma machine. [0018] The application of the process to toxic and dangerous molecules stabilizes their molecular and atomic fundamental state A(O) remains without any possibility of further recombination engendering toxic elements such as Furans and Dioxins (PCB(s) - Polychlorinated Biphenyls, PCDD(s) - Polychlorinated Dibenzo-para-Dioxins, PCDF(s) - Polychlorinated Dibenzo Furans, TCDD - Dioxins and congeneres).

[0019] The recycling method of the invention, using the MHD-MGD described, generally does not involve turbines, mechanical, or motor engines. [0020] The process can be applied to sites containing contaminating materials or directly to polluted areas in civilian or military industrial plants or laboratories. Brief description of the drawings

[0021] The appended drawings illustrate, schematically and by way of example, a preferred embodiment of a device for the implementation of the process according to the present invention. [0022] - Figure 1 is a schematical view of an exemplary embodiment of a device for implementing the process according to the invention, [0023] - Figure 2 is a view of a construction detail of figure 1 , and [0024] - Figure 3 is a schematical view of an exemplary embodiment of a plasma diagnostic device for examining the progression of the treated species neutralization in the plasma.

Mode(s) for carrying out the invention [0025] Figure 1 is a schematical view of an exemplary embodiment of a preferred toroidal device 1 for implementing the process according to the invention, allowing the recycling and confining of the atomic ionized elements between 3 and 600 seconds within the plasma.

[0026] The device comprises a first chamber 2, which may be spherical, and in which is produced a primary plasma. The first chamber is connected to ablation chambers 3 in which resistive or inductive basic plasmas may be used to introduce different species among which atomic elements Fe3+, Ln3+ (Lanthanides), Y3+ (Yttrium), He (Helium) and or H2 (Hydrogen) at the core of the plasmas in LTE. [0027] Later spectroscopic analysis of these elements may be implemented by

Atomic Emission spectrometer ICP-AES, ICP-MS- and AAS. [0028] The basic plasmas are seeded with elements through dispersion of FeCI3, LnCI3, YCI3, or others. The concentrates can vary between 300 and 3000 ppm when in the presence of dioxins, the dispersed added elements are not chlorines but are other halogens or "metallic solutions" in Argon created by plasma methods.

[0029] A dispersion chamber 4 is also provided in connection with the first chamber in order to implement dispersion of toxic liquids and gases.

These liquids and gases may optionally be treated by laser, microwaves,

RF, ultrasonic waves prior to their introduction in the first chamber. [0030] The primary plasma is introduced then in a toroidal main cavity 6 for treating the toxic species.

[0031] A plurality of conventional plasma principal parietals 8 are provided all around the toroidal cavity, as well as a plurality of conventional MHD-MGD process zones 9, including permanent magnets and solenoids.

[0032] The toroidal cavity includes a first output 10 connected to a tank (not represented) for storing the final neutralized residues of the treatment, and a second output 12 connected to an emergency discarding tank (not represented). [0033] A central tank 13 is connected to the toroidal cavity for provision of liquids, gases and pressurized gases for maintaining the plasmas in the toroidal cavity. Those products may be conventional, for instance taken within the group comprising Helium, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide. [0034] At least one cryozone 14 is provided for cooling the plasmas if needed.

[0035] Further, a diagnostic and analysis device is provided to preferably implement a real time diagnostic of the plasmas so as to analyse plasma criteria for LTE in the toroidal cavity, pressures and temperatures. For that purpose, this device may advantageously comprise ICP-MS, ICP-AES, AAS and GC-MS and may be connected to one of the cryozones.

[0036] An electronic centre (not represented) allows output of the residues through the first output 10 when the results provided by the diagnostic and analysis device correspond to neutralization of the toxic species with a predefined required rate. [0037] Optionally, Faraday protection cells (not shown) may be associated with RF and / or HF generators.

[0038] The plasmas generated by the plasma principal parietals 8 are considered as optically thin, which means that the absorption phenomena of the Argon line is quasi negligible. Moreover, the reflected power is 0.03<Rp<0.10 % on Ip (Inducted power) after the tuning regulation.

[0039] Experiments conducted by the Applicant led to the following results:

[0040] Center of the plasma LTE:

[0041] T = (12,360 +/- 19O) ⁰K [0042] Ne = (8.13 +/-0.8) 10 +16 cm-3 according to GRIEM formula [0043] NArI = (4.31+/-0.24) 10+17 cm-3, where ArI = Argon line Ionized state( I ) [0044] Plasma in MHD-MGD zone LTE: [0045] T = (4,200 +/- 19O)⁰K [0046] Ne =( 7.60 +/- 1.50) 10 +13 cm-3

[0047] Plasma out of the MHD-MGD zone NLTE:

[0048] T (average) (2,100- 3,300) ⁰K

[0049] The calculation of Ne, NAr values is not significant because of high uncertainties. [0050] Ne (electrons density) is deduced from the STARK broadening of the ArI 4,300.10 A⁰ line in the GRIEM formula. The GRIEM formula is free for the assumption of the LTE condition.

[0051] The introduced elements (Fe3+, Ln3+, Y3+, He, H2... or D2) follow a special protocol; the Argon continuum is tested in an orthogonal device with the main plasma relative to the MHG-MGD mounting.

[0052] The Argon continuum is analysed by means of ICP-AES [0053] Ar II 3564.34A⁰ continuum [0054] Fe Il 3564.53 A⁰

[0055] The Argon and Iron atomic lines are tracked enough to allow a possible shift on broadening to be resolved.

[0056] The impurities added (Fe+3, Ln3+, Y3+, H2, D2) produce a local self- absorption in the plasmas.

[0057] The absorption relaxation causes a reduction or falling down of the plasma diamagnetism and the increasing temperature can vary from 6.20% to 9.77%, depending on the nature of the introduced elements.

[0058] We utilize this property of the impurities in the kinetics MHD-MGD which we apply so as to make up for thermal losses at the time of the MHD-MGD phenomena.

[0059] ArII Argon ionized line state Il [0060] Fell Iron ionized line state Il [0061] 1A° = 10-8 cm

[0062] In the invention, the process principle is to have geometrically confined, as long as possible, the toxic molecules to be dissociated. It is well known by specialists that, when the molecules first transit through a plasma they attempt to go around the hot core of the plasma where diamagnetic forces and properties exist because of their diamagnetic properties. [0063] Then they confine themselves to the parietal areas of the plasma where the temperature cannot be over 1 ,200⁰K, and the molecules entering this area for a few (micro or milliseconds) are not destroyed or are only partially destroyed and can subsequently reconstruct.

[0064] We utilize the natural properties of plasmas inducted by RF fields and further enhanced by MHD-MGD systems (in motor and/or generator mode) in order to have toxic molecules confined within special geometrical shapes (toroids, spheres, and hybrids with linear and semi-circular sections), and have them exposed to thousands of cycles for a few minutes, by recycling all the elements within the plasmas. Thus the plasma according to the present invention is working within a toroidal nozzle. [0065] The plasma is working in the with stressing the J invariance: a

[0066] (second adiabatic invariant) J = J v.ds = constant. b

[0067] The plasma heating scheme called transit time magnetic pumping when oscillating current is applied to coils of mirrors systems (synchronous NS Z01- MHD-MGD and poloidals fields) for the particles J is not conserved in this case because of the change of B.

[0068] The plasma sections of the plasma device mounting not under the direct influences of magnetic field inductions, are submitted to the poloidals magnetic fields induction, allowing the d Ω (solid angle) correction of the kinetics particulates within the plasma. This geometric correction is applied near the walls of the toroidal nozzle (mirrors).

[0069] The recycling is not engendered (in the invention) by way of pumps or turbines but by the modelization and control of the plasma criteria in the different modes of the MHD-MGD (as generator and/or motor) described below. [0070] MOTOR MODE: [0071] Indeed, the high temperature plasma (2,000- 8,00O)⁰K does not allow the utilization of pumps or turbines. [0072] Furthermore, the thermodynamics of plasma engines in confining mode does not cause the wearing of the mechanical moving parts because there is no moving part in contact with the plasma; there are only magnetic fields, electrodes, and/or RF inductors. [0073] Moreover, there is no possible contamination other than that which we select (Fe3+,Ln3+,Y3+....) Iron, Lanthanides, Yttrium. The maintenance of the parts is simple because there is no mechanical part within a near proximity to the plasmas. Only the electrodes and magnetic fields of the

MHD-MGD systems must be reconditioned. [0074] Figure 2 represents a View of Magneto-Hydrodynamic Motor and

Generator system (MHD-MGD) in a toroidal section.

[0075] The central part of the device is a toroidal section SANB in which the ionized gas is made to flow at high velocity.

[0076] This gas is charged with introduced elements (Fe3+, Ln3+, Y3+ and eventually Ca+2, K+, Na+, La+, Actinides, Li+, Sc3+...). [0077] The theory and experiments demonstrate that the plasma gas with Argon

(Ar) or other mixture that can include some percentage of He (Helium) must be at a temperature of over 2,500 ⁰K to utilize the MHD-MGD.

[0078] MAGNETO HYDRO DYNAMICS GENERATOR PLAN: [0079] Ionized gas Φi

[0080] Electric charge AB (A and B being two electrodes of different polarities) [0081] Toroidal geometric section [0082] Less speedy ionized gas or accelerated gas Φe [0083] GENERATOR MODE: [0084] The plasma is immersed inside a transversal magnetic field that can be created between the S and N polar parts of a permanent magnet or a solenoid inductor. [0085] The walls closest to these poles are covered with an electric isolator.

[0086] On the other hand, the A and B sides constitute conducting electrodes by which an electric current can flow through the plasma and an external charge. [0087] Thus, first it can be supposed that the external circuit is a merely passive and high enough impedance; the plasma movement at V velocity produces then an electric field E = v x B between the electrodes A and B; the system runs as a generator. [0088] If it supplies a current to the outer circuit, then it creates, in the plasma, an electric current of J density and volume force f = J x B and tends to slow down the plasma's movement.

[0089] Magneto Hydro Dynamics as GENERATOR

[0090] On the contrary, it can be supposed that the external circuit includes a generator that creates between A and B an electric field E of opposite direction, and clearly higher than (V x B).

[0091] In such conditions, in the plasma, a current is created in the opposite direction.

[0092] The electromagnetic force (j x B) is also reversed and thus it tends to accelerate the plasma.

[0093] The system operates as a motor.

[0094] The installed power of 210 KW is increased to 810 KW in the case of LTE criteria conditions, because the pressure is raised to 10 Bars in kinetic mode, the concept of temperature being included. The one-dimensional Maxwellian distribution is given by:

[0095] F (u) = A exp(-¹/₂ mu²/kT) with f(u)du = 1

[0096] Where fdu is the numbers of particles per cm³, with velocity between u and

+du, Vz mu² is the kinetic energy and k is the Boltzmann's constant. [0097] The density n, or number of particles per cm³, is given by

So, after evident integral resolution, the average kinetic energy is 1/2 kT

E_av = 1/2 kT.

We can extend this result to three dimensions. Then Maxwell's distributioi is: '. v, w) = A₃ exp[-l/2 (u² + v² + w²) / kT] where

A₃ = n(m/2πkT)^3/2.

After integral resolution, the middle kinetic energy is E_av = 3/2 kT.

So, the general result is that E_1n, equals l/2kT per degree of freedom, the energy corresponding to kT that is used to qualify the temperature

For kT = 1 eV - 1,6 x 10^"12 erg

We have T = 1,6 x 10^'12 / 1.38.10^"16 = 11,600

[0098] So the conversion factor is 1 eV=11 ,600⁰K. [0099] For 2 eV (two dimensions distribution), [00100] 2eV=23,000° K [00101] 3eV=34,800°K [00102] Such temperatures in the plasma can deliver ionised Argon lines ArIII

(third ionized state).

[00103] We can say that plasma can have several temperatures at the same time. It often happens that the ions and the electrons have separate Maxwellian distribution with different temperatures Ti (ions) and Te (electrons). [00104] As in the geometrical MHD-MGD tool, the temperature is up to 2,500^°K, the MHD-MGD process can easily convert the ions and introduced atomic species into a flow of particles with the current density existing in the generator mode.

[00105] The generator mode is mentioned in the invention, but is not developed as a possible improvement of the invention. [00106] The flow inside the plasma is related to an inner current density recovery.

The flow outside the plasma made of bosons mainly (U.V. radiation) is related to an outer current density recovery.

[00107] Outside the walls of the plasma toroidal, the U.V. radiation pressure is important and losses by U.V. radiation are estimated (10 - 20%) of the whole power needed to create the plasma; the thermal balance is influenced by losses from U.V. radiation. [00108] Because of the important electricity needs for the RF generators and

MHD-MGD, all around the Plasma toroid we set silicon cells to change U.V. radiation into electricity. Several converters change the DE current into AC current to be incorporated into the RF generators. [00109] 62% of the toroid can be used to install Silicon cells and recover electricity from U.V. radiation. The benefit of the electricity balance could be 144

KW; this average number is compared with 800 KW installed power. Therefore, in the power balance, this quantity is quite significant for the cost of electricity fluid that is important in the process. The general maintenance of the cells and of the transformers installed in the electricity station is quite simple and inexpensive.

[00110] The electricity produced by generator mode is balanced with motor mode needs in electricity, a reverse phenomena within the plasma.

[00111] The system according to the invention can be autonomous with regard to recycling because of real time analysis through GC-MS, of the remaining molecules; when the atomic analysis device no longer detects any toxic molecule or its precursor, then a new toxic supply enters the toroidal cavity.

[00112] The solid toxic supplies are prepared through primary RF plasma, which undertakes ablation of the solids, which are vaporized and, then, inserted into the plasma device.

[00113] The primary plasmas and their chambers for thermal processing can be disconnected from the toroidal cavity system in case of malfunction so the latter does not become polluted. [00114] The contaminating supply can then be isolated and processed again. [00115] The MHD-MGD systems in their generator mode can produce a significant amount of electricity, which could be useful for some functions of the device according to the invention including some of the MHD energy needs. [00116] Example of power and pressures installed for the process, sections, and dimensions of the plasma chambers: [001 17] The ablation chamber can utilize kinetic plasmas whose power varies between 10 and 70Kw utilizing a star mounting. [001 18] The installed power averages 30 to 210Kw. [00119] The ablation chamber needs to resist pressures of 3 to 10 bars.

[00120] The inner pressure in the toroidal chamber is stated (500mbar to

3000mbar). [00121] The dispersion chamber utilizes RF field methods - microwaves, ultrasounds and CO2 lasers 1 to 10Kw. [00122] The toroidal sections can reach 60cm in diameter. The kinetic plasmas

(star mounting) have sections that can reach 20cm diameter. [00123] The average total installed power is approximately 800Kw. [00124] Governing Principles, Procedures and Sequences: [00125] 1 ) Study of the physical-chemical data provided by the polluter. [00126] Counter-analyses are undertaken, primarily to determine the level of radioactivity of the solid, liquid or gaseous materials. The non-explosive nature of the components to be destroyed is also verified. [00127] 2) The solid components are introduced, with precise precautionary handling, into the spherical ablation first chamber (primary plasma-zone 2). The principal plasmas are not in ignition.

[00128] A real time analysis is undertaken in the diagnostics and analysis device, in order to determine the levels of concentration of molecular and atomic elements subsequent to the first thermal choc.

[00129] 3) Normally, liquid and gaseous components are not inserted in the ablation chambers 3. The liquid and gaseous components first undergo a treatment in the dispersion chamber 4. [0013O] A preliminary control determines the level of radioactivity of the components and each one, then, continues with the toroidal cavity sequential procedures as previously described.

[00131] 4) The vapours are inserted into the toroidal enclosure. The first principal parietal (SRFO) plasma is ignited in 8.

[00132] 5) The plasma thus created is decelerated via MHD-MGD procedure via the generator mode. At this juncture, the residual current produced can be recuperated.

[00133] 6) A real time analysis is undertaken in the diagnostics and analysis device.

[00134] 7) The second principal parietal (SFRO2) is ignited in 8. The plasma thus created is accelerated via the MHD-MGD procedure via the motor mode.

[00135] 8) The plasma is, once again, decelerated via the generator mode. [00136] 9) The MHD-MGD zones are coupled through magnetic induction engendered by permanent magnets (Lanthanides) or by Solenoids. [00137] 10) According to criteria imposed or detected in the plasma, the criteria are modulated by the introduction of atomic and molecular elements

(Fe3+, Y3+ and Ln3+ (Lanthanides) and gases (He, N2, C02, O2, H2, D2)), as needed. Also, temperature criteria, and densities (Ne, NAr) are corrected by the RF generators. [00138] The procedures driving the plasmas and the MHD-MGD and the introduction of atomic and molecular elements are assured by several computerized programs, and charts giving electronic orders allowing the synchronous routine operations for SFR01 , SFR02, SFR03.

[00139] When malfunctions are detected the generators are stopped and the gaseous products inside the toroidal machine are evacuated and introduced into a security cryostat emergency tank.

[00140] After appropriate monitoring and controls are concluded the countdown is given and the operation can be repeated or done again.

[00141] 1 1) The completion of the above-described procedures accomplish the mission of the plasma machine, that is the cyclical circulation in the toroidal plasma - and when authorization is obtained from the diagnostics and analysis device, the treated components are evacuated in a holding tank. [00142] A final ICP-MS control is undertaken prior to the discarding or utilization of the gases into fuel cells. [00143] The metals are recuperated by density. Several complementary procedures can be applied. [00144] Figure 3 represents schematically an exemplary embodiment of the diagnostic and analysis device.

[00145] Since the experiment involves hot gases and possible toxic and hazardous molecules, special caution has to be applied to the manner how to conduct the experiment in order not to damage the analyser tools through direct introduction of the species. This concerns principally the GC-Ms and ICP-

MS. - For the time being, real time experiments cannot be monitored. [00146] Location having 100 as numeral reference on figure 3: [00147] The plasma is generated by ICP mode 27Mhz range, and with supply power (1 ,5-2Kw). The nebulisation chamber can be supplied by liquids or gases with adapted mass flow. The nebulisation chamber can receive and introduce in the plasma different types of atomic species (transition elements, lanthanides, but also actinides....). The nebulisation chamber can receive Argon charged with small particles of natural elements coming from the ablation chamber not described in the general drawing. [00148] The nebulisation chamber can be supplied by different gases such as He and CO2 or D2 that used to realize the plasma diagnostic and criteria, i.e.

LTE and PLTE states. [00149] That means that location 100 is related to general gases and species introduced in the plasma and the Argon plasma itself. [00150] Location having 200 as numeral reference on figure 3: [00151] MHD-MGD system coupled with the plasma; this mounting is resistive, with the use of electrodes (carbon for the moment, and in the future carbon doped with Lanthanum hexaboride).

[00152] We can see the solenoids for the impulsed field mode and the permanent magnet for the conservation of invariance of J. [00153] Location having 300 as numeral reference on figure 3: [00154] The outflows of gases treated by the MHGD system are cooled, and the plasma is on PLTE state; in the steady configuration in location 100 the plasma was in LTE.

[00155] These states are verified by current criteria of the plasma with Saha equation. The temperature is compared to prominent lines of Cl, CII and

Ar I, Il continuum when the plasma is in LTE state. Thus we can determine

Ne, NAr₁ T°K - shift and broadening. [00156] For the species introduced in the main plasma in location 100, we can determine the gf values oscillator strength for each plasma and compare the gf values of LTE and PLTE. Thus we can appreciate correctly the degenerated state with good accordance of gf values of other authors

(Kurucz and Peytreman) with the Smithsonian tables. [00157] The temperature being delivered by the Argon continuum, we use the

BOLDT method (Ar + C02). Thus, for example, for a Argon Plasma, we get T=12 433 ⁰K with a precision dT=240 K

[00158] Location having 400 as numeral reference on figure 3:

[00159] The cooled gases 3,000 K coming from the MHGD could be treated again by an ICP coil in order to attain the highest possible level of destruction.

However, this experiment is limited to a linear mode and in order to have a good understanding of the process of the invention, via the MHGD system, one can recycle the gases. [00160] This is attained after an important cooling (7,000 K to 600 K) with a turbine heat exchanger. One can appreciate the nearly complete destruction of the molecules after several minutes of recycling. There are only about several hundreds of cycles necessary as compared to several thousands of cycles with the MHGD tool. [00161] In the case of the turbine, one can only appreciate the residence time of the molecules, the velocity of the macroscopic gas but not the high velocity of atomic and electron species equal to several km.sec-1. [00162] However, for the moment, we cannot discuss these states implying resonant and non resonant plasmas in a toroid. [00163] We must also precise that the outlet flow from 400 is introduced in the cryo and chemical traps in order to precipitate or solubilize the metals. This will allow the cooled gases to be recovered in special cans and to be analysed. [00164] 140-145-150 are special bottles under reduced vacuum to take samples from different parts of the plasma before MHGD and after MHGD, but also near the magnets in order to determine the lanthanides flow after the previous introduction in the plasma 100. This allows to appreciate the efficiency of the MHGD system. [00165] 105-110-115 are the mass flows allowing to regulate the (Argon + species) intake in the different parts of the plasma. [00166] Locations having 500 and 600 as respective numeral references on figure

3: [00167] Location 500 is an optical length at the exit of the MHGD system allowing to appreciate the different criteria in the plasma and the lanthanides distribution and to compare the determination of the concentration before and after which has been realized with the gauges 140-150-145.

[00168] This measurement is considered as real time by the optical method in the plasma and indicates also the thermal losses in the system. [00169] Locations having 700 and 800 as respective numeral references on figure

3: [0017O] We adapt to the optical length 500 several CaF2 windows and rotating mirrors (700 and 800), the optical length is under vacuum 10³torr. [00171] The lasers 114 and 113 are reserved for the sources alignment situated in the front window of the ICP-AES analyser.

[00172] The optical length 600 is under vacuum, and a D2 lamp (111) for Deuterium continuum is adapted to the optical length 600, near the CaF2 window, there is a Carbon arc for reference to blackbody model 3900 K for the Carbon crater. [00173] This reference is very useful in all temperature determinations. The reference is compared to the Cl (2478 A° - 1931 A°) in the Ar + CO2 continuum.

[00174] Location having 900 as numeral reference on figure 3: [00175] This is the torch AES-ICP location, we can remove for optical diagnostics for the plasma, and back replace when finished, in order to pursue the analysis protocol of species.

[00176] A special mounting will target the centre of the AES entry to reach correctly the radiation detector of the ICP-AES.

[00177] The same operation has been realized one year ago with a ICP 6000 and a ICP 5500.

[00178] MISSIONS OF EACH ANALYZER [00179] ICP - AES : [00180] Determination of the elements in the raw material introduced in the

Ablation Chamber. [00181] Determination of the elements of the resulting ablation, the experiment has been realized far from the general mounting in order avoid pollution risks. [00182] Determination of the species distribution in the cryo 1 15 and chemical traps 116.

[00183] Plasma diagnostics (continuum Ar + CO2 Cl - CII₁ Ar I₁ Ar II, D2), external

C - C arc-gf values. Temperature, Ne, Nar, MHGD system efficiency.

Entropy of the system LTE - PLTE states. [00184] ICP - MS: [00185] Analysis of the atomic species introduced in the 140-150-145 gauges.

[00186] Analysis of the atomic species introduced in the 1 15 and 116 specialized traps, after cooling and precipitation. [00187] Analysis of the MHGD electrodes pollution and abnormal ablation (the electrodes are sacrificed out of the MHGD) and treated to allow the dissolution of the metals.

[00188] GC - MS: [00189] Gases from gauge 140-145-150 are analysed to determine the presence of hazardous molecules (remediation ratio) TEQ to be less than 0.1 ng/m3. [00190] Mimetics or subrogates of hazardous molecules. Studies of promoters of dioxins, PCBs, furans. Aromatic and aliphatic C=C bond models. [00191] Gases from 115-116 traps after cooling. The GC-MS will not be coupled to the 1 15-1 16 traps exit, but recovered in a special can in order to be analysed afterwards. [00192] The traps 115 and 1 16 will be particularly studied for Sulfur and Chlorine in the process.

[00193] MODULATED POWER PLASMA PROCESSING

[00194] EXPERIMENT MODE (Hemi-Toroidal mounting) Poloidal plasma rotation in presence of RF HF waves heating in the process.

[00195] Based on the previous experiment one can follow the capabilities of the system with hemi-toroidal mode. [00196] The process is not changed, only the Ignition Sequence must be carefully calculated in taking in consideration the MHD-MGD process to be applied for the plasma.

[00197] The PULSED PLASMA method seems to be the best device for the plasma acceleration coupled to MHD-MGD. [00198] The results delivered for the diagnostic of the plasma are quite similar, however we can note the same instabilities in the NLTE state as have been observed in the NLTE plasma. These instabilities are directly related to the leak of Ne (N-electrons) and the Ni (N-ions) densities, close to the

MHD - MGD coupled system. [00199] Optically calculated the species (hazardous molecules and ionised elements (FeI-FeII, Ln31 Ln3ll) are confined in the plasma, and only 7% escape from the centre of the plasma region and flow near poloidal areas of the hemi (toroidal mounting). [00200] Pulsed Plasma mode: [00201] With the pulsed mode one can reach at the suppression of the powder concentration in the discharge space near the MHD-MGD zone; negative ions are involved in the powder formation.

[00202] We can consider that powder formations in heat zones are poisoning the plasma confinement. Between turn on and turn off we have a steady state.

The pulse duration can range between 10 and 500 ms (millisecond), the turn on can range between 10 and 500 microseconds. [00203] Pulsing the power into the plasma will change the properties of the plasma and will also change the processing. Pulsing the plasma can give advantages over continuous power applied to plasma, mainly in the thermal wall and the resistance and corrosion of structures. [00204] With the pulsed process the risks of over heating and over load the current are considerably low. [00205] One part of the diagnostic of the plasma is realized with Langmuir probes.

The residual part of hazardous molecules (7%) which are not involved in the remediation process in the centre of the plasma are definitively destroyed by RECYCLING the plasma several seconds (or minutes if necessary) in case of military by-products (NG). [00206] TOROIDAL COMPLETE MOUNTING

[00207] One can complete the plasma process by coupling to hemispherical sections, the sequences are quite complex but the complete operation can be realized. [00208] Before coupling and recycling the whole toroidal process, we arrange a hemispherical section coupled with a thermal turbine (TELSA Turbine) in order to appreciate the thermal balance with the plasma, the loss, and the capabilities of the MHD-MGD motor or generator mode.

[00209] The conventional turbine or circulator cannot support high temperature plasma in presence of high oxidant agents, when the temperature plasma is decreasing in contact with the mechanical part of the turbine and/or circulator. [00210] This problem could be solved by using Carbon-Carbon materials.

[00211] Certain parts of the toroidal plasma machine could be realized with

Carbon-Carbon materials. [00212] DIMENSIONS AND MOUNTING OF THE FINAL TOROIDAL PLASMA

MACHINE [00213] In order to minimize the dimensions of MHD -MOD sections and RF-HF heating coils (power supply), we can superpose three or several toroidal anular plasma chambers of calculated sections equal to 15 cm or 20 cm

(diameter), if we calculate the final toroidal plasma, the machine could alone reach to 60 cm of diameter. [00214] The advantage of this mounting is important because we can utilize conventional power RF supply and the volume capabilities is equivalent, and allows to treat the same volume of hazardous molecules. [00215] Moreover, in case of a dysfunction of one part of the whole plasma machine, we can pursue the operations with only one or two toroidal plasmas, and the problematical toroidal plasma could be stopped easily and either remain at the site or be repaired quickly. [00216] Thus, the advantages of the maintenance are evident and very advantageous.

[00217] The process according to the present invention may advantageously be implemented or used to

- form ceramic compounds comprising Lanthanides, and Yttrium, Zirconium, Silicium, Boron, Calcium, Potassium, and depleted Uranium,

- form metallic gaseous pseudo solutions in a reducing or oxidizing plasma medium, some of which may be used as a means of mining and refining treatment for precious metals - PMGs (Precious Metal group),

- form metallic catalysts possessing a considerable specific surface, - produce energy and electricity by use of Silicium or Germanium as gaseous electrodes for electrons capture and current production in presence of UV radiation in the geometric plasma chamber,

- prepare gaseous atomic elements destined to undergo subsequent selective, lsotopic Separations, Quantum Resonance and Ion Selections in plasmas,

- create metallic solutions that can be used in the field of nanotechnologies (biology, electronics, energies),

- form matrices to be used in the field of condensed matter and supraconductivity - to be utilized such as anti-gravity devices and quantum computers,

- elaborate matrices for neutralization of low radiation residues,

- eliminate CO2, CO, H2S, SO2, NOx, NyOx... in chimney incinerators, factories, petrochemical factories and thermal power supply producing electricity. [00218] The features of the process for remediation of chemical or biological species of the device for its implementation are described in the present description in a non-limiting manner. More especially, the given examples are non-limiting. The one skilled in the art will encounter no particular difficulty to adapt either part of the description as a function of his needs without going beyond the scope of the present invention.

Claims

Claims

1. Process, for remediation of chemical or biological species without any possible further recombination of the residues thereof, comprising the steps consisting in producing high temperature plasmas and making them circulate in an enclosed space (6) under the action of at least one MHD-MGD device (9), introducing said chemical or biological species within said enclosed space, characterised in that said enclosed space has a closed loop shape so as to allow the plasma to spend enough time within said enclosed space for said chemical or biological species to be neutralized.

2. Process according to claim 1, characterised in that it said plasmas circulate within a toroidal cavity (6) or within a cavity formed by a combination of linear and curved sections so as to be closed loop shaped.

3. Process according to claim 2, characterised in that said chemical or biological species are maintained within said enclosed space (6) for a duration between approximately 3 seconds and 600 seconds.

4. Process according to claim 2, characterised in that it comprises a further step consisting in analysing in real time said plasmas to examine whether said chemical or biological species are neutralized and to decide when to remove them from said enclosed space (6).

5. Process according to claim 2, further comprising a step of introducing atomic elements included in the group consisting of Fe3+, Y3+, Ln+3 (Lanthanides), Actinides, and Gases N2, O2, He, D2, H2, C02 so as to modify the criteria of the plasma.

6. Process according to claim 2, characterised in that said plasmas are produced in chambers that comprise Silicium Oxide and Boron Nitrides, Carbon-Carbon composites materials or Beryllium Oxide or Zirconium Oxide as geometric materials.

7. Process according to claim 2, characterised in that it comprises a further step of forming ceramic compounds comprising Lanthanides, and Yttrium,

Zirconium, Silicium, Boron, Calcium, Potassium, and depleted Uranium.

8. Process according to claim 2, characterised in that it comprises a further step of forming metallic gaseous pseudo solutions in a reducing or oxidizing plasma medium.

9. Process according to claim 8, characterised in that said solutions are used as a means of mining and refining treatment for precious metals - PMGs

(Precious Metal group).

10. Process according to claim 1 , characterised in that it comprises a further step consisting in forming metallic catalysts possessing a considerable specific surface.

1 1. Process according to claim 1 , characterised in that energy and electricity are produced by use of Silicium or Germanium as gaseous electrodes for electrons capture and current production in presence of UV radiation in the geometric plasma chamber.

12. Process according to claim 1 , characterised in that it comprises a further step consisting in gaseous preparation of atomic elements destined to undergo subsequent selective, lsotopic Separations, Quantum Resonance and Ion Selections in plasmas.

13. Process according to claim 1 , characterised in that it comprises a further step consisting in the creation of metallic solutions that can be used in the field of nanotechnologies (biology, electronics, energies).

14. Process according to claim 1 , implemented in an extra-terrestrial environment, for the extraction of metals and gases to be found on planets or asteroids.

15. Process according to claim 1 , characterised in that it further comprises a step consisting in forming matrices to be used in the field of condensed matter and supraconductivity - to be utilized such as anti-gravity devices and quantum computers.

16. Process according to claim 1 , implemented to elaborate matrices for neutralization of low radiation residues.

17. Process according to claim 1 , implemented for the CO2, CO, H2S, SO2, NOx, NyOx... remediation coupled to the outlet and chimney incinerators, factories, petrochemical factories and thermal power supply producing electricity.

18. Device (1) for the implementation of the process according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a cavity (2, 6) provided with at least one plasma generating device (8), at least one MHD-MGD device (9) for circulating said plasma, one input (4) for introducing chemical or biological species to be neutralized, one output (10) to remove residues from the neutralized chemical or biological species, characterised in that said cavity comprises at least one closed loop shaped cavity (6).

19. The device according to claim 18, characterised in that said cavity (2, 6) is further provided with a diagnostic and analysis device for said plasma arranged to decide whether to remove said chemical or biological residues from said cavity.

20. The device according to claim 18, characterised in that it further comprises a first chamber (2) in which a primary plasma may be produced to allow introduction of at least said chemical or biological species within said cavity.