Microplasmas, ranging from 1–20 ìm in diameter, can be generated in electrolyte and dielectric liquids through the controlled application of energy to submerged electrodes. In nanosecond duration pulses ranging in energy from micro-joules to joules, the phase change to a plasma releases this energy in the form of shockwaves, heating, light emission and chemical species generation. The energy dissipation occurs in a highly localized, time and energy dependant manner. This talk will address fundamental concerns about bubble formation during discharge initiation and maintaining non-equilibrium plasma states. Experimental diagnostics of the micro-plasmas including electrical characteristics, visualization and optical emission spectroscopy are used to obtain a better understanding of the processes. Production of plasma in liquid can be controlled to provide both non-thermal and thermal mechanisms for chemically modifying water, oil and other liquids. Some applied results to hydrocarbon processing and material processing will also be highlighted.

For more information, please contact: Dr. Anzhong Wang x 2276.