RF and microwave plasmas intended for applications to nanomaterials and thin films synthesis

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As stated in the 2008 report of the US Department of Energy, Low Temperature Plasma Science: Not Only the Fourth State of Matter but All of Them, “The unique nonequilibrium environment and the combination of reactive and charged species created by the plasma provide the means to synthesize and modify nanometer-sized materials in ways that may not be achieved by any other means. However, a fundamental understanding of how reactive radicals, ions, electrons, and photons interact with matter is necessary for extending the current state of the art to produce scientifically exciting and technologically important discoveries.” From the very beginning, my vision was to engage myself in the fertile field of plasma science to generate large amounts of exciting new knowledge impacting in particular materials science and technology. Accordingly, I intend to seize new opportunities by tackling 3 challenging projects: (i) LOW-TEMPERATURE ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE PLASMAS FOR NANOCOMPOSITE SYNTHESIS. The main goal of this project is to develop versatile, simple, low-cost and eco-friendly processes to produce a novel class of nanocomposites and/or to functionalize nanostructured cellulose in the form of either filaments or nanocrystals. (ii) LOW-PRESSURE RF AND MICROWAVE PLASMAS FOR SMART THIN FILMS SYNTHESIS. This work will tackle the scientific and technological challenges associated with the synthesis of smart polycrystalline VO2 thin films on space-compatible substrates such as Al and Kapton using RF and microwave plasmas to develop the next generation of tunable smart radiator devices for miniaturized satellite thermal control. (iii) VERY LOW PRESSURE PLASMAS IN THE PRESENCE OF NANOPARTICLES. I will pursue an extremely exciting project dealing with the investigation of dust particles formation and transport in high-frequency plasmas. This research impacts in particular the field of astrophysics as a laboratory simulation tool to understand the formation and transport of carboneous dust in interstellar plasmas and in fusion plasmas. ******In addition to its scientific and technological impact, a major benefit of this interdisciplinary research program is that it provides high level of scientific/technical training to motivated Highly Qualified Personnel (HQP) through a broad set of skills and expertise. This HQP will constitute a future pool of expertise for academia and for high-technology Canadian industries.