CPP proposes to setup a thermal plasma based reactor system for production of nano-sized particles of very narrow size distribution of ceramic materials, where particles nucleate during a sub-sonic expansion of the gas phase precursors while passing through a converging nozzle. The high temperature and the energy density of the thermal plasma offer with a favorable environment for the complete dissociation of the injected reactants and faster rate of production of the product particles. The improved uniformity achieved in this method, both in terms of temperature field profiles inside the plasma column and the quenching inside the hot walled ceramic nozzle ensures the production of mono-disperse particles. For the diagnostics of the thermal plasma, we will be using Optical Emission Spectroscopy and thermocouples. Particles thus synthesized will be characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The particle characteristics will be ultimately correlated with the plasma parameters for process optimization. The study of particle nucleation during rapid quenching by numerical methods will also be done.

Objectives of the study:

• Set up a thermal plasma based reactor for synthesis of nano-particles of different materials.
• Study of a thermal arc plasma system for production of nano-particles with the help of optical emission spectroscopy and thermocouples
• Characterize the particles by X-ray diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy.
• Optimization of the process with respect to particle characteristics.