Non-equilibrium plasma

Definition

Non-equilibrium plasma is a type of plasma where the electrons are at a much higher temperature than the ions and neutral particles, creating a state where thermal equilibrium is not achieved. This distinct temperature difference allows for unique properties and behaviors, making non-equilibrium plasma particularly useful in various applications such as plasma medicine, surface treatment, and microplasma technologies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Non-equilibrium plasma is generated under conditions where energy is supplied unevenly, leading to high-energy electrons while ions remain relatively cool.
2. The high-energy electrons in non-equilibrium plasma can produce reactive species that are effective for various applications, such as disinfection and wound healing.
3. Microplasmas are a specific form of non-equilibrium plasma that can be created at low power levels and operate under atmospheric conditions, making them useful for localized treatments.
4. Non-equilibrium plasma can be sustained through methods like dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) or atmospheric pressure plasma jets (APPJ), which enable its use in different environments.
5. This type of plasma is critical in advancing technologies related to biomedical applications, including cancer treatment and promoting tissue regeneration.

Review Questions

• How does non-equilibrium plasma differ from thermal plasma in terms of energy distribution among particles?
  • Non-equilibrium plasma differs from thermal plasma mainly because the energy distribution among particles is uneven. In non-equilibrium plasma, the electrons have a significantly higher temperature compared to the ions and neutral particles, which remain cooler. This temperature difference allows for unique reactions and processes that are not possible in thermal plasmas, making non-equilibrium plasma particularly advantageous for applications such as sterilization and medical treatments.
• Discuss the role of reactive species generated in non-equilibrium plasma and their significance in medical applications.
  • Reactive species generated in non-equilibrium plasma play a vital role in various medical applications due to their ability to interact with biological tissues. These species can effectively kill bacteria, promote wound healing, and enhance tissue regeneration. For example, when non-equilibrium plasma is used for sterilization purposes, the reactive oxygen and nitrogen species produced can damage microbial cell walls, leading to their destruction. This property makes non-equilibrium plasma an exciting area of research for developing innovative treatments in plasma medicine.
• Evaluate the impact of microplasmas as a subset of non-equilibrium plasmas on emerging technologies in biomedical engineering.
  • Microplasmas represent a significant advancement within the field of non-equilibrium plasmas, especially concerning emerging technologies in biomedical engineering. Their ability to operate at low power levels while maintaining effectiveness at atmospheric pressure enables precise treatments without damaging surrounding tissues. As research progresses, microplasmas could revolutionize targeted therapies for conditions like cancer by allowing localized treatment options that minimize side effects. Their unique characteristics also make them suitable for new material processing techniques, enhancing biocompatibility and functionality of implants and prosthetics.

Related terms

Thermal Plasma: A type of plasma where the temperature of electrons, ions, and neutral particles are nearly equal, leading to thermal equilibrium.

Microplasma: A small-scale plasma system characterized by its low power consumption and ability to operate at atmospheric pressure, often found in applications like material processing and medical treatments.

Reactive Species: Atoms or molecules that can participate in chemical reactions, often generated in non-equilibrium plasma, playing a crucial role in processes like sterilization and surface modification.