Instruments to measure plasmas besides Langmuir probes?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on alternative instruments for measuring plasma density in conditions unsuitable for Langmuir probes, specifically in plasmas with a density of <5x10^19/m^3 and a temperature of 10 eV. Capacitive probes are suggested as a viable option, functioning similarly to Langmuir probes but capable of operating in hotter and denser environments. Additionally, millimeter-wave interferometry is proposed, utilizing phase shifts in microwave signals to infer plasma density through wave-particle interactions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of plasma physics and properties
  • Familiarity with Langmuir probe operation and limitations
  • Knowledge of capacitive probe design and functionality
  • Basics of millimeter-wave interferometry and its applications in plasma measurement
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the design and application of capacitive probes in high-density plasmas
  • Explore millimeter-wave interferometry techniques for plasma diagnostics
  • Study the principles of wave-particle interactions in plasmas
  • Investigate alternative plasma measurement techniques beyond Langmuir probes
USEFUL FOR

Researchers and engineers in plasma physics, experimental physicists working with high-density plasmas, and anyone involved in the development of diagnostic tools for plasma measurement.

1a2
Messages
20
Reaction score
0
If a plasma is created at one end of a solenoid and heads down towards a target with a density and temperature too high for Langmuir probes, what other instruments can measure the density with a strong signal that is easy to interpret?
 
To be more specific, the plasma has a density <5x10^19/m^3 and 10eV temperature.

I was thinking either capacitive probes as, depending on the design, these can work in hotter/denser plasmas than Langmuir probes. They are really just a Langmuir probe without an exposed metallic tip when it comes down to it though, and work on a similar principle.

Also, perhaps millimeter-wave interferometry because when a microwave signal is passed through the plasma, where wave-particle interactions with the electrons cause a phase shift in the signal. The phase shift between this signal and a reference beam path is measured, and density information can be inferred.
 

Similar threads

Graduate Questionable research practices in Nuclear Fusion
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Graduate Measuring Ion Temperature in Plasma: Why Use Tungsten/Molybdenum Probes?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Graduate What is wrong with particle acceleration based fusion?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
What is zero error of a measuring instrument ?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
Undergrad Suitable Container Materials for Plasma
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Undergrad Weak measurement and the measurement problem
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Instrument name for water sampling and analysis
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Fusion Plasma Trap: Capturing Neutral & Quasi-Neutral Plasmas
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Studying Preparing for Plasma Physics (Jackson)
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Graduate KamLAND-Zen Results: Search for Majorana Neutrinos in Inverted Mass Hierarchy
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K