From Space Down to the Cell: Plasma Science and Engineering Research at PERL at the University of Alabama in Huntsville

The Plasma and Electrodynamics Research Lab (PERL) at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) conducts experimental studies in different regimes of plasmas and space propulsion. The lab is located under the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department, thus the research motivations are more applied ranging from magnetic reconnection physics, rocket engines, to bacteria sterilization. Recent and current research has focused on 1) magnetized plasmas at the laboratory scale for advanced space propulsion and fusion, 2) rotating detonation engines for airbreathing propulsion, and 3) atmospheric pressure plasmas for water, bacteria, and plant treatments. This poster provides an overview of the somewhat surprisingly disparate areas that plasma science and engineering research can impact which are being studied at PERL, and to provide students an opportunity to see the broader range of research and technology that grows from studying plasma science that they can explore.