New Compact Continuous Spectrum Light Source Using Atmospheric Pressure Microplasma With High-velocity Ar Gas Flow

摘要

A compact continuous spectrum light source was developed by employing atmospheric pressure microplasma with high-velocity Ar gas flow. The device employs two opposing electrodes at the end of an insulated pipe, through which high-velocity Ar gas flows. Flow rates from 4.2 to 12.6 L/min (velocities of 90 to 270 m/s) were investigated. A 1-mm microplasma forms between the electrodes, generating continuous spectrum light ranging from 200 to 1000nm in wavelength. The new light source was used to measure the absolute density of OH radicals in Ar/H_2O plasma at atmospheric pressure by ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy. The new device is an attractive alternative to the conventional Xe arc lamp.