Understanding the mechanism of nano-aluminum particle formation by wire explosion process using optical emission technique

Nano-aluminum particles are produced by a wire explosion process in different inert gas ambience. It is observed that generated particles have different sizes and it follows log-normal probability distribution. The particle size produced by the wire explosion process varies depending on the thermal conductivity of the medium and the operating pressure of the gas. To understand the mechanism of nano-particle formation, the optical-emission spectroscopic technique is used for measuring characteristics of plasma generated during the wire explosion process. Strong emission lines were observed from the species formed during the wire explosion process. Plasma temperatures are estimated based on local thermal equilibrium principle and using Al emission lines. Plasma temperature of more than 8000. K is observed in an Ar ambient. The optical emission study clearly indicates that the intensity of plasma increases with an increase in the ambient pressure. Further, it is observed that an increase in the pressure of the gas, the plasma temperature also increases. The study shows that the plasma temperature in the He gas is lesser than in the Ar gas. The plasma temperature due to the discharge plays a significant role on nano-particle formation. In addition, it is observed that irrespective of polarity, emission characteristics are almost the same. © 2010 Elsevier Ltd.