rhombusjr said:If you're not dead set on "pure" physics, one of the applications of plasma physics is spacecraft propulsion. Try looking up some papers on plasma physics from APS or IEEE.
Tom83B said:It's just a guess, I don't know if there's any research needed, but what about plasma TVs?
sir_manning said:One area of non-fusion research is laser-driven electron accelerators (AKA plasma wakefield accelerators). These can accelerate particles to GeV's over a much shorter distance than current accelerators. There is a lot of interest in this for medical technologies, because right now accelerators for cancer therapy are too big and expensive for most hospitals. Laser-drive accelerators would supposedly be smaller and cheaper. See more information here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_acceleration
Plasma-arc waste disposal is another area, though I would imagine this is mostly engineering.
Take a look at the applied areas of research here for some more info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_(physics )
Non-fusion-related plasma physics is the study of plasma, which is a state of matter consisting of highly ionized gas, in applications outside of nuclear fusion. This can include research on plasma-based technologies such as plasma display panels, plasma thrusters, and plasma medicine.
The main difference is in the focus of the research. Non-fusion-related plasma physics is primarily concerned with the behavior and applications of plasma in non-fusion settings, while fusion-related plasma physics is focused on understanding and controlling plasma for the purpose of achieving nuclear fusion reactions.
Non-fusion-related plasma physics has numerous practical applications, including in the fields of material processing, surface modification, and environmental remediation. Plasma can also be used in advanced propulsion systems for spacecraft, as well as in medical treatments such as sterilization and cancer therapy.
Non-fusion-related plasma physics is studied using a combination of theoretical models, numerical simulations, and experimental techniques. Researchers may use specialized facilities such as plasma reactors or tokamaks to create and study plasma in controlled environments.
Some of the main challenges in non-fusion-related plasma physics research include understanding and controlling the complex dynamics of plasma, developing efficient and reliable plasma sources, and finding ways to scale up plasma-based technologies for practical applications. Additionally, safety and environmental concerns must be considered when working with plasma, as it can be a high-energy and potentially hazardous form of matter.