PhD. position - Plasma Physics - Application of plasma on polymer materials

Low-temperature plasma is currently a highly effective medium for surface treatment of a variety of materials to activate their surface, increase adhesion or remove contaminants and unwanted microorganisms on the surface of a certain substrate. Since strong acids or other toxic chemicals are usually used for the above-mentioned purposes, plasma treatment represents an environmentally friendly method of achieving the desired material changes and moreover it is less demanding and more efficient. The low temperature of such a plasma, which is close to the ambient temperature, enables the treatment of heat-sensitive materials such as polymers and is often used for the treatment of various biological materials such as seeds, fruits or yeasts. Under optimal conditions, it can have a positive effect on sensitive biological material (improving the germination of seeds). On the other hand, due to the high density of active particles, it can be very effective in eliminating unwanted microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.

The aim of the position:

The aim of the dissertation is to compare the different configurations of plasma discharges operating at atmospheric pressure considering their effect on the surface changes of different polymer substrates.

The research involves gaining the skills in operation of different plasma systems based on dielectric barrier discharge, plasma jet and piezoelectric discharge. The individual sources will be characterized by spectroscopic and electrical measurements. The effects of the plasma generated under different conditions (power, working gas, gas flow, exposure time, distance from the plasma source) on the primary physico-chemical surface properties of the model polymer substrates such as wettability and surface energy (WCA, SFE), changes in chemical bonding (XPS, ATR-FTIR) and surface morphology (SEM, AFM) will be investigated.

More information about the research: https://dep.fmph.uniba.sk/labbioapp/

More information of the PhD study and Plasma physics programme:

https://fmph.uniba.sk/en/admissions/admissions-process/doctoral-degree-…

https://fmph.uniba.sk/en/admissions/doctoral-degree-programs/plasma-phy…

Salary:

prior to completion of the qualification exam: 1025,50 EUR (6th class, 1st level)

after successful completion of the qualification exam: 1 194 EUR (7th class, 1st level)

Scholarships are not subject to taxes or other fees.

To apply, please send

- short motivation letter (max. 1 page) describing your previous experience with laboratory research including the topic of your Master thesis

- list of your publications - peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals and conference abstracts/contributions

- CV

in advance before the deadline to petra.sramkova@fmph.uniba.sk