Cold Plasma Technology for Treating Industrial Waste<br /><br />By: Asst. Lecturer Shahad Ammar Hatem<br /><br />Sustainable Development Goals:<br /> Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure<br /> Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production<br /> Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation<br /><br />Cold plasma, also known as non-thermal plasma, is an emerging technology offering innovative solutions for industrial waste treatment. Unlike traditional incineration or chemical treatment, cold plasma operates at room temperature, using ionized gases to decompose hazardous substances without producing secondary pollutants.<br /><br />In industrial settings, toxic waste—especially from chemical manufacturing or petroleum refining—can pose serious environmental and health threats. Cold plasma can break down complex organic compounds, neutralize pathogens, and even remove persistent pollutants like dyes and pharmaceuticals from wastewater.<br /><br />This technology is energy-efficient and highly controllable. It eliminates the need for large volumes of chemicals and reduces the generation of sludge or solid waste. Moreover, it can be integrated into existing treatment systems, making it a versatile solution for industries aiming to minimize their environmental footprint.<br /><br />Research is ongoing to improve plasma reactor designs, enhance treatment capacity, and reduce operational costs. When combined with real-time monitoring systems and smart automation, cold plasma could revolutionize waste management practices across multiple sectors.<br /><br />The application of cold plasma aligns with sustainability goals by promoting safer industrial practices, reducing pollution, and ensuring cleaner water discharge into ecosystems.<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University – The No. 1 Private University in Iraq