We are engaged in the fundamental research and novel engineering of gaseous discharges for different applications in technologically relevant fields. Weakly-ionized plasma, as well as charged particle beams, play an important role in material synthesis and modification for diverse industrial applications. Our primary objective is the study of gaseous discharges and its effect on different materials relevant to surface engineering, microelectronics manufacturing, value-added processes for indigenous materials and biomedical applications.

Our current research interests include the extraction of monoenergetic hyperthermal beams of ions for treating energy-sensitive materials such as surface modification and functionalization. Low-energy ion beams are also considered for the layer-by-layer growth of thin films and coatings. Ion transport and space-charge neutralization are extensively studied as well. Our research includes plasma and vacuum chamber design, ion source system and extraction electrode configuration and in situ discharge diagnostics for different physical and chemical processes occurring in the plasma and interfaces.

Furthermore, non-thermal plasma systems are being studied for applications ranging from surface improvement of locally available materials for value-added processes to biomedical applications such as sterilization, decontamination and improving the biocompatibility of materials. Non-thermal plasma is generally defined as any discharge that is not in thermodynamic equilibrium where ion and electron energies are different. This system is a promising environment-friendly alternative to wet-based/chemical-based processes. In addition, non-thermal plasma systems can be operated at atmospheric or reduced-pressure conditions thus eliminating the use of expensive vacuum equipment making it ideal for diverse in-line applications.

Our Research

Current research work delves into the interaction of gaseous discharges and carbon-based materials. Synthesis of carbon-based materials such as diamond-like-carbon, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanowalls, and graphene is substantially studied for application in various fields. In our research, the growth of carbon materials using low-energy ion beams is being considered.

Applications of discharges and ion beams for modifying metallic, polymeric, and ceramic surfaces are of particular focus. With plasma, mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of materials can be modified and controlled down to the nanometer scale. Surface modification, as well as deposition of functional coatings, can be used to tailor surface properties such as wettability, adhesive bond strength, tribological properties, among others. This approach can also be used to improve biocompatibility as well as enhance the anti-bacterial properties of biomedical materials. For further information, please visit our research page.

Join us!

Our research, which incorporates experimental and computational studies, in gaseous discharges and ion beam systems includes the development of novel plasma sources and new applications relevant to material synthesis, modification, and characterization. This laboratory continues to seek talented individuals to carry on and advance the challenging world of plasma-material interactions. If we have aroused your interest, contact us to explore how you can be part of our dynamic team of dreamers and visionaries. Your contributions to the advancement of these fields are highly welcome.

Collaborate with us!