Nanoparticle generation by intensified solution crystallization using cold plasma

In this study, atmospheric pressure cold plasma (surface dielectric barrier discharge) was used as an alternative energy form to intensify solution crystallization and produce nano-sized organic crystals. Nano-sized particles can have beneficial product properties such as improved internal quality and dissolution rate, compared to conventionally sized crystalline products. In cold plasma intensified crystallization a nebulizer system sprays the solution aerosol into the plasma with the help of a carrier gas. The plasma simultaneously heats and charges the droplets causing fast solvent evaporation and Coulomb-fission to occur, after which nucleation and crystal growth commence within the small, confined volume offered by the small droplets. In this manner, nano-sized crystals of the energetic material RDX and the pharmaceutical niflumic acid were produced.