5^th US Low Temperature Plasma Summer School, 2026
Lab Tours/Hands-on-Experiences/Workshops

Analyzing Diatomic Emission Spectra

Location: 111 Lampe Drive, room 214 (see on campus map)

Optical emission spectroscopy is one of the most widely used diagnostics to measure gas temperatures in plasmas. In this workshop, the basic principles, best practice approaches and most common pitfalls to determine the gas temperature from diatomic emission spectra will be explored (see also the following reference). The workshop will begin with a brief overview of the background and methods used, followed by a hands-on analysis of previously recorded spectra from a range of plasma sources. We will conclude with a comparison of results obtained among groups.

Global Plasma Modelling with QDB

Location: 111 Lampe Drive, room 222 (see on campus map)

This workshop provides a high-level overview of global plasma modelling, focusing on its ability to quickly simulate complex plasma chemistry. We will then provide an introduction to and training on Quantemol Global Model, a commercial software tool (free for the online version). We will begin by diving into the software's practical strengths. You will gain hands-on experience with QDB-Global, learning the step-by-step methodology for building and validating your own reaction mechanisms. Using real-world examples like semiconductor etching, you’ll see how to apply these models to solve industrially interesting plasma problems.

To participate in this workshop, you will need to bring your own laptop computer that can be connected wirelessly to the internet.

Hairpin Probe Diagnostics for Low Pressure Plasmas

Location: Burlington Laboratories, 2500 Katharine Stinson Dr., room 3108 (see on campus map)

Hairpin probes are a compelling alternative diagnostic to Langmuir probes for localized plasma density measurements in a low temperature plasma. This workshop will cover 1) methods for probe fabrication, 2) characterization and calibration of these probes, 3) measurement of electron densities with these probes on a LTP reactor at NCSU, and 4) advanced methods for estimation of additional parameters such as electron neutral collision frequency, time resolved density measurements for pulsed power and RF phased resolved experiments, and estimation of sheath thickness, plasma potential, and electron temperature. This workshop will include hands on operation of microwave hairpin resonator probes, configurations for steady state and time resolved measurements, and class tutorials on fundamental and advanced analysis techniques.

Optical Design for Plasma Diagnostics

Location: Burlington Laboratories, 2500 Katharine Stinson Dr., room 1202 (see on campus map)

The Optical Design for Plasma Diagnostics topical session will introduce students to the principles of designing optical systems for plasma spectroscopy using ray-tracing simulation tools. Participants will use the optical design platform to model plasma light sources and simulate the imaging and collection optics used in spectroscopic diagnostics. Through guided exercises, students will simulate plasma emission, design optical systems for efficient light collection, and evaluate spectroscopic configurations for spectral analysis. The workshop will also explore optimization of optical components to improve signal collection and diagnostic performance. Finally, the session will connect these optical designs to the underlying plasma spectroscopy theory, demonstrating how measured spectra can be used to extract key plasma properties and complete the full diagnostic workflow from emission generation to physical interpretation.

V/I Diagnostics for Atmospheric Pressure Plasmas

Location: Burlington Laboratories, 2500 Katharine Stinson Dr., room 2111 (see on campus map)

Voltage and current measurements are widely used diagnostics for atmospheric pressure plasmas. In this workshop, the basic principles and pitfalls will be explored for reliable and accurate voltage and current measurements and subsequent dissipated power calculations. The workshop will focus on two different types of atmospheric pressure plasmas: dielectric barrier discharges and RF jets. We will utilize common HV probes, Pearson coils, and directional couplers. The workshop will begin with a brief lecture followed by hands-on measurements in the lab. We will conclude with data interpretation and comparison of results among groups.