Plasma Route to Nanosciences and Nanotechnology Frontiers

In this paper, I will discuss different routes to preparation of nanomaterials. The biological route provided in nature, chemical route and plasma route are indicated. The plasma route to prepare nanomaterials as compared to chemical route is highlighted. In particular, the plasma method, making use of Dense Plasma Focus device (DPF) to prepare nanomaterials is discussed. A 3.3 KJ, Mather type device modified with a detachable arrangement at the top of the anode where material to be deposited is fitted in the form of disc. The substrate holder is inserted from the top of the plasma chamber and different substrates at various distances each are placed at the top of the anode. The hot dense argon plasmas produced at the top of the anode produces the ions of target materials to be deposited. The argon ions along with fully ionized target atoms move upward in a fountain like structure. These ions are then deposited on different substrates. Nanoparticles of different optical, piezoelectric, semiconducting and magnetic materials etc. have been obtained. Some typical results of high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) for characterization of fullerenes, lead zirconate titanate, aluminium, zinc oxide and cobalt are presented to establish the formation of nanoparticles.