Pulsed contact glow discharge electrification for online material quantification

Hahn, Kayla; Williams, Ammon N.; Stapelmann, Katharina; Bataller, Alexander

doi:10.1016/j.talanta.2025.128755

Pulsed contact glow discharge electrification for online material quantification

Journal Article · Tue Sep 09 00:00:00 EDT 2025 · Talanta

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.talanta.2025.128755· OSTI ID:3013358

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North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC (United States)
Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)

Real-time elemental analysis of liquids in extreme environments remains a significant challenge for sensor development, particularly in applications such as advanced nuclear reactors. Plasma-based optical emission spectroscopy offers a promising solution. In this study, we investigate pulsed contact glow discharge electrolysis (CGDE) as an alternative plasma generation method for emission-based material quantification. Using aqueous NaCl solutions, we examine the role of discharge polarity on plasma behavior, emission characteristics, and spectral output. Our results demonstrate that cathodic discharges generate more energetic plasmas, enabling the detection of ionic species such as cerium, while anodic discharges favor atomic emission. These findings reveal a potential dual-mode sensing capability controlled by circuit configuration rather than hardware changes. Through synchronized measurements of emission, current, bubble, and spectral dynamics, we present a model in which electron emission and ohmic heating drive plasma formation. This model enhances our understanding of pulsed-CGDE and supports its potential as a versatile, adaptable platform for future deployment in high-temperature liquids such as molten salts.

View Accepted Manuscript (DOE)

Research Organization:: Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)

Sponsoring Organization:: USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA); USDOE Office of Nuclear Energy (NE)

Grant/Contract Number:: AC07-05ID14517; NE0009167; NE0009407

OSTI ID:: 3013358

Report Number(s):: INL/JOU--25-85218

Journal Information:: Talanta, Journal Name: Talanta Journal Issue: A Vol. 298; ISSN 0039-9140

Publisher:: ElsevierCopyright Statement

Country of Publication:: United States

Language:: English

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