Synthesis of acetylene from natural gas in the direct current electric discharge

The synthesis of acetylene from natural gas in the direct-current electric discharge was investigated. The results of a number of preliminary trials, made in an attempt to design a tube suitable for continuous operation are presented in this discussion. A series of runs was made to determine the optimum conditions for the operation of the five centimeters diameter silica tube. The optimum current was found to be 1.5 amperes, and an electrode distance of eight centimeters was found most suitable. The optimum pressure for the production of acetylene was 80-100 millimeters, depending on the gas velocity. The capacity of the tube was 60 to 120 cubic feet of natural gas per hour. The appearance of the discharge under various conditions is described. The mechanism of the reactions taking place in the discharge is discussed