PPPS-2013: Optimum antenna design for microplasma generation

In the last decade, there has been an increased interest in microplasma properties and applications. Microplasmas have been considered for use in plasma thrusters,¹ displays, and sensors. Microplasmas are small scale plasmas which are typically generated with radio frequency (RF) power sources. The small scale of the microplasma requires equally small antennas. The sizing difference can cause difficulties in proper impedance matching for power deposition from the radio. To address this issue, different radio frequency antenna designs are investigated to generate microplasma within a glass capillary tube at the University of Alabama in Huntsville´s Johnson Research Center. The designs vary in material and shape to determine the best configuration. The experiment setup uses a multi-frequency radio, high power amplifier, and T style matching network. The test antenna design will be attached to the output and will provide the radio signal to the gas inside the glass tube. Example design variations include material, spacing, and shape.