Higher-Order Spatio-Temporal Control of Induction Thermal Plasma Flow for High-Rate Production of Nanomaterials

We have developed the "Tandem-MITP(Modulated Induction Thermal Plasmas)+TCFF(Time Controlled Feeding of Feedstock) method" to achieve higher production rates for nanoparticles and nanomaterials. The Tandem-MITP operates with two independent coils arranged in a single plasma torch, generating an axially extended thermal plasma field. The upper coil ensures the robustness and stability of the thermal plasma, while the lower coil sustains a significantly modulated thermal plasma state. During the on-time phase, feedstock is efficiently evaporated, and during the off-time phase, the precursor vapor is rapidly cooled by the entrainment gas flow, promoting nucleation.

Utilizing this method, we have successfully synthesized large quantities of nanoparticles at production rates exceeding several hundred grams per minute in experimental settings. This report further investigates the control of thermofluid flow within the torch and reaction chamber for synthesizing even greater amounts of nanoparticles. We employed machine learning techniques to determine optimal conditions, achieving specified thermofluid patterns conducive to large-scale nanomaterial synthesis. Additionally, the integration of supplementary flanges has enhanced the entrainment gas flow, further facilitating nucleation.