Microplasmas from Diamond Arrays
Lead Research Organisation:
The Open University
Department Name: Physical Sciences
Abstract
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Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
| Mark Bowden (Principal Investigator) | |
| N. Braithwaite (Co-Investigator) |
Publications
Mitea S
(2012)
Generation of microdischarges in diamond substrates
in Plasma Sources Science and Technology
| Description | The research in this project aimed to develop a new type of microdischarge plasma, a type of discharge with spatial dimensions of the order of 1 mm or less. These have potential for various industrial applications but there were and still are questions about the basic operation of this type of device, its stability and lifetime. In this project, we aimed to explore some of these aspects by developing new systems that exploited the mechanical and electronic properties of industrial diamond. The outcome of the project were a set of research papers and conference presentations that reported the first operation of diamond-based microdischarges and their main operational features. Before the project began, we hoped that we might reach the point where industry exploitation could follow on directly from this project but as the project progressed we realised that further development of the fabrication process would be needed. Hence, the main research outputs were our reports of our scientific findings. This was consistent with the goals stated in our original research proposal. Perhaps the major finding of the project was the development of microdischarge devices with extremely long lifetimes. This opens up the possibility of long-term studies that are essential for proper industry exploitation. |
| Exploitation Route | Our findings point the way towards further development and further exploitation of diamond thin films in the microplasma research field. Further steps would include development of a stable fabrication process - our own process was successful but too inefficient for any industry application - and further investigation of instabilities that might arise in long-term operation of these devices. |
| Sectors | Electronics,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology |
| Description | Findings have been published and disseminated via research conferences. This has led to an interest in diamond based devices from other researchers and subsequent research in Japan, amongst others places. The information gained in the research has influenced subsequent microdischarge work in the UK. |
| Sector | Electronics,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology |
| Impact Types | Societal |