This study presents results of an experimental investigation on the development of water vapor plasma technology and its applications in environment-friendly processes. An experimental linear 55-69 kW DC plasma torch operating at atmospheric pressure was developed, tested and employed to conduct an experimental research on the production of hydrogen-rich gas. The average temperature of water vapor plasma jet in the exhaust nozzle varied from 2000 to 3000 K, and the plasma jet velocity was 210-350 m s(-1). Propane gas conversion into syngas by water vapor plasma technology was investigated; this process was found to proceed efficiently. Hydrogen and carbon monoxide gases were produced as the main products, and additionally also small amounts of CO2 and H2O and O-2 were obtained. Propane conversion depends on the plasma jet temperature, total gas flow rate and stable operating conditions of the plasma torch. The obtained results will be useful in further investigations to improve the construction of a plasma reactor for solid biomass and organic waste decomposition. (C) 2012 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.