b_d_Dom - 8-11-2006 at 12:51
Hello
A few weeks ago I was experimenting with a small high voltage generator that i made using the flyback transformer from and old TV. It produced about
10,000 volts at probably 2 milliamps, and I had it making a continuous spark jump about 2cm and also separate making corona (I was building a small
plasma globe).
I could smell the ozone strongly, but it wasnt until the next morning that I noticed my eyes and throat felt burned, and it didnt wear off for almost
a week.
What do you guys know about making ozone with high voltage and about how dangerous the actual gas is?
woelen - 8-11-2006 at 14:45
I also do HV-experiments and I know the ozone smell. It is really annoying. Ozone is a very strong oxidizer and as such destroys mucuous membranes and
many other tissues. So, be careful with it. I do HV-experiments in a well-ventilated room, but no other special measures are taken. I think that if
you work in a well-ventilated room, the issue with ozone from HV-experiments is not that serious, but if it gets annoying, then use even better
ventilation, or work outside, if possible. Some arcing experiments, I do inside a glass jar, with a plastic screw cap. The screw cap at the same time
provides a solid base, which makes it easier to keep the distance between electrodes constant. Loose wires are a burden for that.
Of course, my greatest concern with HV is the risk of electrocution .