| abstract |
Plasma spray systems comprise multiple zones wherein the energy required for different processes within the systems can be controlled independently. In some embodiments, a plasma spray system comprises a first zone wherein ionic species are generated from the target material using a first energy input, and the ionic species either combine to form a plurality of particles in the first zone, or form coatings on a plurality of input particles input into the first zone. The plasma spray system can further comprise a second zone, comprising a chamber coupled to a microwave energy source, which ionizes the plurality of particles to form a plurality of ionized particles and form a plasma jet. The plasma spray system can further comprise a third zone, comprising an electric field to accelerate the plurality of ionized particles and form a plasma spray. |