The Role of Ozone in Chemical Processes in Electric Discharge Plasma

The mechanism of formation of an ozone–hydroxyl mixture and its properties have been investigated. The main channel for the consumption of hydroxyl radicals is the buildup of hydrogen peroxide. In the absence of ozone, almost all OH• radicals formed are converted to hydrogen peroxide. In the presence of ozone, the reaction O3 + H2O2 gives hydroxyl radicals again. The concentration of OH• radicals is maintained until ozone and hydrogen peroxide are consumed. This allows the transport of hydroxyl radicals up to 45 cm from the reactor. The results are confirmed by an experiment on the oxidation of oxalic acid.