The activation of small molecules, such as CO2, NO, and H2O, has been achieved at atmospheric pressure via ac glow discharge methods in the presence of metal catalysts coated onto the electrode surfaces. A fan-type reactor having one rotating and one static electrode has been designed to diminish mass transfer effects. Time lapse photography of the emitting plasma intermediate species and optical emission studies have been used to monitor reaction pathways. Gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, and combined GC-MS methods have been used to monitor product distributions, selectivities, and activities. The effects of flow rate, input voltage, diluent gases, and metal coating have been systematically studied. Additionally, the mechanisms of CO2 decomposition and the role of the metal catalyst in that decomposition have been studied by optical emission spectroscopy.