The Plasma State

Abstract

This chapter serves as an introduction to the vast and rapidly growing field of plasmas science and technology. A brief introduction defining what is a plasma and the different types of plasmas, whether natural or man-made, is presented. This is followed by a review of the main characteristics and applications of man-made plasmas. Separate sections deal with nonequilibrium, man-made plasmas, whether glow discharges, corona discharges, dielectric barrier discharges (DBD), or microwave plasmas and their respective industrial applications. Thermal, man-made plasmas are discussed next, identifying the basic concepts for the generation of such plasmas followed by a description of principal thermal plasma sources and their respective industrial applications. Whenever applicable, forward referencing is made to subsequent chapters in the handbook where further details are given on the different subjects.