Project 1

The future of CO₂-neutral metal production relies heavily on the advancement of high-amperage electric arc technologies. Project 1 within the PlasmArc4Green module is dedicated to addressing this critical aspect by enhancing our understanding of plasma properties and dynamics in electric arcs at very high currents (up to 50 000 A).

In current metallurgical practices, high-energy consumption and CO₂ emissions are major concerns. PlasmArc4Green aims to replace traditional fossil fuel-based processes with electric arcs in standard plasma gases, such as hydrogen, argon and oxygen, to achieve the necessary heat for melting metals and driving reduction reactions without CO₂ emissions. However, the behavior of high-amperage electric arcs, especially in non-local thermodynamic equilibrium (non-LTE) conditions, remains insufficiently understood, posing a significant challenge for industrial scalability.

Project 1 focuses on developing comprehensive models to describe the transitions between non-LTE and local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) in bulk plasma. These models are crucial for accurately simulating the behavior of plasma in different gas mixtures, such as hydrogen and argon, at temperatures up to 50,000 K. Additionally, the project investigates the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) dynamics of electric arcs at very high electric currents, aiming to create optimized 2-T and 1-T models that provide detailed insights into plasma properties and interactions.

The research undertaken in Project 1 is characterized by its high novelty and excellence, contributing to the core competencies of the PlasmArc4Green initiative. By focusing on fundamental plasma dynamics, the project sets the foundation for future developments and applications within the module. The data and models generated will form a comprehensive database of plasma properties, essential for both simulation and experimental validation in subsequent projects.

Furthermore, Project 1 addresses the need for improved understanding of arc-cathode interactions, a key factor in achieving stable and efficient plasma processes. By conducting systematic studies on the MHD dynamics and thermal properties of high-amperage arcs, the project aims to develop reliable models that can be scaled to industrial applications, ensuring consistent and efficient metal production processes.

Ultimately, Project 1 is a crucial step towards the overarching goal of CO₂-neutral metal production. By providing essential insights and developing innovative models, this project contributes significantly to the PlasmArc4Green module, paving the way for sustainable and efficient industrial-scale processes in metallurgy.