Characteristics of the steady-state atmospheric pressure DC discharge

Summary form only given, as follows. We have carried out chemical, optical, and electrical studies of the steady-state, atmospheric pressure DC discharge, with the intent of identifying the chemically and biologically active species produced. The first investigation was a discharge in air. Chemical analysis was performed by a commercial unit used in environmental monitoring. Our results comprise measurements of ozone, NO, NO/sub 2/, and methane. The results show that the overwhelming production was of ozone. A trace of NO was found. No NO/sub 2/ or methane was found. The optical investigation was looking for far (chemically active) ultra violet light. As a tool we used a crystal of calcite (calcium carbonate) naturally activated with mercury. This crystal is phosphorescent for several seconds when activated with far ultraviolet, but ignores near (chemically inactive) ultraviolet or visible light. The result is that the far ultraviolet light production was negligible as compared to that of a 150-Watt mercury arc in a quartz tube.