Making a Plasma Laboratory for Missouri S&T Students
Department
Nuclear Engineering and Radiation Science
Major
Nuclear Engineering
Research Advisor
Castano, Carlos H.
Advisor's Department
Nuclear Engineering and Radiation Science
Funding Source
Department funds; OURE Stipend
Abstract
Plasma is a quasi-neutral gas consisting of both charged and neutral particles that exhibit collective behavior. This unique fluid can be used in many applications, including but not limited to space propulsion, gaseous electronics, and fusion projects. One method to produce plasma is to apply a high voltage to a gas in a vacuum chamber. If the plasma is produced in a transparent vacuum chamber, it can be analyzed with the assistance of concepts that are offered at the Missouri University of Science and Technology in the Plasma I course available annually.
This project aims to create a counterpart to the Plasma I course; it provides an introduction to physical interaction and understanding of the fluid. This is being tested via the use of placed electrodes applying variable voltage to Argon at variable pressures. Results will be graphed with respect to pressure and voltage holding electrode distance constant.
Biography
Monica Gehrig is a sophomore in Missouri S&T’s nuclear department. She is interested in pursuing a future in research in development of nuclear energy, which inspired the research she is presenting in this conference.
Research Category
Sciences
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Document Type
Poster
Location
Upper Atrium/Hall
Presentation Date
15 Apr 2015, 9:00 am - 11:45 am
Making a Plasma Laboratory for Missouri S&T Students
Upper Atrium/Hall
Plasma is a quasi-neutral gas consisting of both charged and neutral particles that exhibit collective behavior. This unique fluid can be used in many applications, including but not limited to space propulsion, gaseous electronics, and fusion projects. One method to produce plasma is to apply a high voltage to a gas in a vacuum chamber. If the plasma is produced in a transparent vacuum chamber, it can be analyzed with the assistance of concepts that are offered at the Missouri University of Science and Technology in the Plasma I course available annually.
This project aims to create a counterpart to the Plasma I course; it provides an introduction to physical interaction and understanding of the fluid. This is being tested via the use of placed electrodes applying variable voltage to Argon at variable pressures. Results will be graphed with respect to pressure and voltage holding electrode distance constant.
