Work

Enhanced plasma production by ambipolar electric fields in convergent magnetic fields

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Controlled unidirectional remote plasma production in a radio-frequency (rf) plasma source is demonstrated by placing magnetic nozzle throat several tens of centimeters away from the rf antenna, where a local density peak forms near the throat. The experiment indicates that the dominant electron energization mechanism responsible for the density peak in the magnetic nozzle throat is electrostatic electron acceleration driven by a spontaneously formed ambipolar electric field, yielding an energy gain of approximately 5 eV and enhanced remote ionization. These results establish plasma sources driven by spontaneous electrostatic electron acceleration.

Source: Physical Review Research

DOI: 10.1103/86rf-6dvz

Authors: Kazunori Takahashi, Christine Charles, Rod W. Boswell, Antonella Caldarelli

Institutions: Tohoku University, Australian National University, Institut de Combustion Aérothermique Réactivité et Environnement

Language: English

Topic: Low-Pressure Plasma Processing and Diagnostics

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,625

Funders: Murata Science Foundation, Japan Society for the Promotion of Science