50th Intl. Nathiagali Summer College
Activity - III: Plasma Technologies & its Industrial Applications
(20th - 22nd June, 2025)
The plasma technology involves the use of ionized gases (plasmas) to carry out various industrial and scientific processes, incorporating the unique properties of plasmas, such as high energy density, prompt response and its ability to interact with materials at a molecular level. Its application span numerous industries, offering innovative solutions for a wide range of challenges.
Plasma torch technologies is used for high temperature cutting, welding and material processing, providing precise control over heat and energy. Plasma nitriding technology enhances the surface hardness and wear resistance of metals by introducing nitrogen into the material. Plasma-based surge protectors absorb and dissipate excess electrical energy, safeguarding sensitive electronics from voltage spikes. In environmental and waste management plasma-based technologies are revolutionizing the treatment of municipal, medical and radioactive waste, breaking down hazardous materials into safer components through high energy plasma reactions. Plasma coronal discharge seeding is a latest technology for artificial rain generation, where controlled plasma discharge stimulates cloud condensation to encourage precipitation. These diverse applications, which extend to manufacturing, healthcare, electronics, environmental engineering and even meteorology, underscore the versatility and potential of plasma technology in addressing modern industrial and environmental needs. Plasma propulsion technology is a type of electric propulsion that uses plasma to create thrust. It is enabling the exploration and commercialization of space. It is used in space missions for space craft station keeping, rephrasing and orbit raising/topping. It also used in small satellites for orbital corrections.
In the 50th INSC, a separate activity is dedicated to “Plasma Technologies & its Industrial Applications” with the aim to cover the topics as follows:
- Plasma Torch Technology
- Plasma Nitriding Technology
- Plasma based Microwave Surge Protectors
- Plasma Based Medical/Nuclear Waste Treatment
- Plasma Coronal Discharge Seeding for Artificial Rain
- Plasma Propulsion Technology
