SBIR PHASE I: Hybrid Steam-Plasma Torch

这个小企业创新研究（SBIR）一期项目探索了一种新型混合蒸汽等离子体（HSP）火炬，该火炬在先进材料合成、化学转化、废物回收、涂层沉积和气化方面具有广泛的应用。研究的目标是一个原型的高温热激焊枪，并重点展示其在等离子喷涂操作中的应用。演示的重点是在工业环境中的可靠性和易用性。第一阶段的研究将解决诸如蒸汽等离子体环境中耐用电极材料的要求等问题。等离子喷涂有望具有较大的市场潜力。第二阶段计划包括对喷射金属的冶金性质及其与基材的粘合特性的详细评估。HSP炬的使用有望提高工艺生产率，并为等离子喷涂技术开辟新的应用领域。作为一种通用的加工工具，它可以开辟广泛的化工加工应用领域。这些包括纳米动力合成，甲烷转化为乙炔，以及纸浆工业中黑液的气化。这项技术的重要市场可能是处理危险化学和生物制剂，包括氟氯化碳、多氯联苯和其他有毒或致癌物质。

This Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Phase I project explores a novel hybrid steam-plasma (HSP) torch that has broad application for advanced materials synthesis, chemical conversion, waste redemption, coating deposition, and gasification. The research objectives aim at a prototype HSP torch and focus on demonstrating its application in plasma spray operations. The demonstration focuses on reliability and ease of use in an industrial environment. The Phase I research will address issues like requirements for a durable electrode material for the steam-plasma environment. Plasma spraying is expected to have a large market potential. Phase II is planned to include detailed evaluations on the metallurgical nature of the sprayed metal and of its bonding characteristics with substrates. Use of the HSP torch is expected to improve process productivity and open new applications for plasma spray technology. As a generic processing tool, it may open a broad range of chemical processing applications. These include nano-powered synthesis, conversion of methane to acetylene, and gasification of black liquor in the pulp industry. A significant market for this technology may be found in the treatment of hazardous chemical and biological agents, including CFC's, PCB's, and other toxic or carcinogenic substances.