The N 2 -O 2 plasma is generated in the area near the coil and activated species flow toward the heating mantle, which is kept at 873 K. to 10 -2 . Also reported is the thermodynamic equilibrium production of NO at 873 K. NO production at zero plasma power (i.e. thermal catalysis) is zero within the detection limit of the instrument. Thus thermal catalysis is ineffective at these operating conditions. Moreover, NO production via plasma (80 W) is also ineffective. NO yields are less than 20 and 60 ppm without and with the YSZ tube with a standard deviation of 40-50%.