A novel flexible plasma array for large-area uniform treatment of an irregular surface

Abstract

In this work, we demonstrate a flexible multi-pin plasma generator with movable electrodes, which can change the shape of the electrode array freely, and then provide a large-area uniform plasma for the treatment of surfaces of different shapes. Discharge characteristics including U–I waveforms and discharge images and sterilization performance under three different electrode configurations (flat–flat, flat–curve, curve–curve) are investigated. Very similar results are acquired between the flat–flat configuration and the curve–curve configuration, which is much better than that under flat–curve configuration. This flexible multi-pin plasma generator offers a simple method to treat different irregularly shaped surfaces uniformly with a single device. Moreover, this device provides a foundation for developing a self-adaption large-scale uniform plasma generator by further introducing automatic adjustment of the position of every electrode driven by motors with discharge current feedback in the following study. Thus it will promote the applications of atmospheric-pressure cold plasmas significantly.

The effect of bending angle on a flexible electrode DBD plasma under sinusoidal excitation

“…For the application in disinfection of curved surface, Weltmann et al [21] introduced an flexible electrode array configuration suitable for intricate 3D geometries treatment. Liu et al [22] also reported a versatile multi-pin plasma generator featuring movable electrodes, enabling the uniform treatment of large surface areas with complex shapes. Kim et al [23] demonstrated an inkjet-printed flexible DBD (flex-DBD) source to inactivate the fungi on the surface of blueberries by decreasing the corruption rate of 80% for at least 5 min treatment.…”

A 3D-printed fence-surface plasma source for skin treatment and its potential for personalized medical application

“…However, recent studies reported that the bending condition of CDBD could affect the discharge [28]. The wearable plasma source was proposed which could be used to treat the large area with irregular shapes [29][30][31]. However, the areas that do not need to be treated still should be driven by the power supply, leading to the high demand for the driven source.…”

Discharge mode conversion of bending flexible electrodes

“…Besides, for the disinfection of curved surface, Weltmann et al proposed a flexible electrode array arrangement, which would be applied in the complex 3D geometries [4]. Lu et al also presented a flexible multi-pin plasma generator with movable electrodes, which would provide a large-area uniform plasma for the treatment of surfaces having different shapes [5]. Kim et al reported an inkjet-printed flexible DBD source, which could significantly inhibit the growth of fungi on the surface of blueberries [6].…”