Electrospark-Induced Bubble Rupture for Micronano Bubble Formation in Water
Mengying Zhu1, Mingyan Zhang1, Xiaoran Wang1
1State Key Laboratory of Electrical Insulation and Power Equipment, Center for Plasma Biomedicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China.
The Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters
|October 17, 2025
Summary
This study introduces a novel method for generating micronano bubbles (MNBs) using underwater bubble discharge. These MNBs effectively enhance reactive species generation for improved water disinfection.
Area of Science:
- Plasma physics and fluid dynamics
- Bubble dynamics and cavitation phenomena
- Water treatment and disinfection technologies
Background:
- Micronano bubble (MNB) generation traditionally uses cavitation.
- Underwater bubble discharge offers a new pathway for MNB formation.
- Understanding discharge-bubble interaction is key to optimizing MNB production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and investigate a novel MNB generation mechanism via self-sustained discharge in underwater bubbles.
- To analyze the dynamics of bubble deformation and rupture during discharge.
- To evaluate the efficacy of generated MNBs in enhancing reactive species and water disinfection.
Main Methods:
- Utilized high-speed imaging to capture the interplay between spark discharge and bubble evolution.
- Employed a local thermal equilibrium (LTE) plasma model to simulate thermal and electrical dynamics.
- Analyzed plasma gas temperature, velocity streamlines, and bubble neck expansion.
Main Results:
- Observed significant bubble deformation and structural evolution during discharge.
- The LTE model predicted local temperature increases up to 1750 K due to streamer activity.
- Identified bubble neck expansion at elevated temperatures as the precursor to breakup and MNB formation.
Conclusions:
- A novel MNB generation method using underwater bubble discharge was successfully demonstrated.
- The study provides insights into the physical mechanisms governing discharge-induced bubble rupture.
- Generated MNBs show potential for enhancing interfacial reactions, ozone and hydrogen peroxide generation, and water disinfection.
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