V: Comparing Plasma & Vacuum - ICP Instrument

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the operation of an Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) instrument, specifically the interaction between a vacuum chamber and a plasma torch. It is established that when the plasma is activated, it allows the inlet of the vacuum chamber, which has a diameter of approximately 1mm, to remain open, thereby maintaining an intermediate vacuum level. The misconception that plasma is associated with high pressure is clarified, emphasizing that plasma is characterized by high temperature rather than high pressure, which contributes to its ability to seal the vacuum inlet.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) technology
  • Knowledge of vacuum chamber operations
  • Familiarity with plasma physics principles
  • Basic concepts of pressure and temperature relationships
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  • Research the principles of plasma physics and its applications in ICP instruments
  • Explore vacuum technology and its role in maintaining pressure in scientific instruments
  • Learn about the thermal dynamics involved in plasma generation
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USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physicists, engineers working with ICP instruments, and researchers in analytical chemistry who seek to understand the interplay between plasma and vacuum systems.

haiha
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I used to work with a ICP instrument for a while. There's a phenomenon which I tried to explain but it seems not clear enough.
In the instrument, just imagine there are a vacuum chamber and a plasma torch. The vacuum chamber has an inlet with a diameter of about 1mm. If the plasma is off, the inlet is shut. Only when the plasma is on, the inlet is open and the vacuum can hold, otherwise, there's no vacuum. This vacuum is not so high, it's the intermediate stage.
I always thought plasma is high pressure, high temp, so it shoud elimilate the vacuum, but it does the opposite!.
Thanks for reading the thread.

HH
 
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Plasma is high temperature, not necessarily high pressure.
 
You are right, plasma may not be high pressure, but how can I explain that plasma can seal the vacuum hole?
 

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