Plasma Applications for Material Modification: From Microelectronics to Biological Materials

This book provides an up-to-date review of plasma-based techniques for material modification, from microelectronics to biological materials and from fusion plasmas to atmospheric ones. It emphasizes the most recent findings and expected evolution, covering topics such as oscillations in ionized gases, the predominant state of matter in the known universe, and the transition from solid to liquid to gas.

Format: Hardback
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 24 September 2021
Publisher: Jenny Stanford Publishing

This comprehensive book provides a thorough and up-to-date examination of the most significant plasma-based techniques for material modification, spanning from microelectronics to biological materials and from fusion plasmas to atmospheric ones. Written by renowned experts with extensive international experience, each technical chapter delves into the intricacies of plasma technology and its associated elemental processes, accompanied by excellent figures and comprehensive references to enhance understanding. While some of the topics covered in this book may have historical roots dating back several decades, special attention has been given to highlighting the most recent findings and predicting future advancements.

The term "plasma" first made its appearance in scientific literature in 1928, when Irving Langmuir published his seminal article titled "Oscillations in Ionized Gases." This marked the inception of the predominant state of matter in the known universe, estimated to comprise up to 99% of matter. However, it is noteworthy that plasma does not exist on Earth due to the prevailing conditions of pressure and temperature, which favor the existence of the more familiar states of matter such as solid, liquid, and gas. To transition from a solid to a liquid state, it is sufficient to provide energy in the form of heat or electromagnetic radiation. Continuing to add energy to the liquid leads to its partial or complete ionization, resulting in the formation of a new state of matter known as plasma. This plasma consists of freely moving electrons, atoms, molecules, and ions, which are electrically neutral particles with either a positive or negative electric charge.

Plasma technology has found widespread applications across various industries and fields. In the realm of microelectronics, plasma-based techniques such as plasma etching, deposition, and ion implantation are employed to shape and modify semiconductor materials. These processes enable the production of complex electronic devices with high precision and efficiency. In the biological sciences, plasma-based techniques such as plasma sterilization and tissue ablation are used for medical purposes, such as surgical procedures and cancer treatment. Plasma-generated radicals and reactive species have the potential to damage cells and tissues, while also promoting tissue healing and regeneration. In the field of fusion energy, plasma-based reactors are being developed to harness the immense energy released during nuclear fusion reactions. These reactors aim to produce clean and sustainable energy sources by controlling the plasma conditions and optimizing the fusion process.

Plasma-based techniques also have significant implications in atmospheric science. For instance, atmospheric lightning, also known as lightning discharges, occurs when electrically charged particles in the atmosphere collide and discharge energy. Plasma-based sensors and instruments are used to study these lightning discharges and their effects on the atmosphere. Plasma-based technologies are also employed in space exploration, where they are used for propulsion, communication, and sensing.

In conclusion, this comprehensive book provides a deep and comprehensive insight into plasma technology and its associated elemental processes. Written by renowned experts with extensive international experience, it serves as a valuable resource for researchers, scientists, and engineers interested in advancing their knowledge and understanding of plasma-based techniques. The book's emphasis on recent findings and future advancements makes it an essential tool for anyone working in the fields of microelectronics, biological materials, fusion energy, and atmospheric science.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789814877350