The researchers noted that conventional methods of producing hydrogen-rich gas involve devices that, among other limitations, are presently bulky, heavy and can't effectively process biocrude oils. In contrast, the new plasmatron works well with a variety of fuels. That's because even though such gas increases the efficiency of an engine, the plasmatron itself consumes energy. Pollution reduction is significant. For natural gas, even less fuel need be converted for similar pollution reductions.
Biocrude oils have their own environmental benefits.
The researchers are now working to increase the efficiency and yields of the plasmatron. They are also developing designs that will give a longer lifetime for the electrodes. In a parallel effort, they are conducting experiments on the effects of hydrogen-rich gas on internal combustion engines. The original experiments to this end, which found significant benefits to the use of such gas, were conducted in the 1970s. The new plasmatron grew out of work conducted more than 15 years ago by Dr. Rabinovich, who was then an engineer in the former Soviet Union.