Heterogeneous ion-induced nucleation in thermal dusty plasmas

Abstract

Heterogeneous ion-induced nucleation in thermal dusty plasmas such as welding fumes or combustion plasmas containing metals and metal oxide vapours is considered. The influence of nucleus charging as a result of the interphase interaction on the nucleation free energy is determined. It is shown that the environment enrichment by electrons results in the formation of nuclei at lower values of supersaturation than without electrons. The nucleus equilibrium and the critical radii dependences on the plasma temperature and dusty plasma contents are demonstrated. © 2011 IOP Publishing Ltd.