Can plasma cutter be used for sputtering?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of using a small plasma cutter setup for etching and sputtering, as well as exploring the use of plasma spraying for creating longer lasting atomic force microscope probes. Plasmas are commonly used for these purposes, with some variations such as using lasers, electron beams or ion beams for sputtering. Plasma spraying is also known as physical vapor deposition and is different from chemical vapor deposition in which the vapor chemically reacts with the substrate. A potential resource for further information on this technology is provided.
  • #1
Hi there, I'd like to know if a small plasma cutter setup could be used for etching and sputtering... for example, finding a way to make a little plasma arc flow in air like a sputtering and etching beam. I doubt i can use an arc directly without burning up and destroying what I am trying to work with

I'd like to make atomic force microscope probes cheaper and longer lasting just like shown in this video... http://ceramics.org/ceramic-tech-to...probes-for-superior-resolution-and-durability
 
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  • #2
Seems as though this thermal plasma spraying might make it work, as it's used for chemical vapor deposition,
 
  • #3
SupaVillain said:
Hi there, I'd like to know if a small plasma cutter setup could be used for etching and sputtering... for example, finding a way to make a little plasma arc flow in air like a sputtering and etching beam. I doubt i can use an arc directly without burning up and destroying what I am trying to work with

I'd like to make atomic force microscope probes cheaper and longer lasting just like shown in this video... http://ceramics.org/ceramic-tech-to...probes-for-superior-resolution-and-durability
Plasmas are used for etching and sputtering, although sputtering is often done with lasers, electron beams or ion beams, depending. I've seen examples of etching with Ar plasmas.

Plasma spraying is usually called physical vapor deposition (PVD) versus chemical vapor deposition in which the vapor chemically reacts (sometimes a type of decomposition) with the substrate.

Here is one example of the technology - http://books.google.com/books?id=k8fI2BH1KVEC&lpg=PP1&pg=PR5#v=onepage&q&f=false
 

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