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Summary Leaf angle distribution (LAD) in forest canopies affects estimates of leaf area, light interception, and global‐scale photosynthesis, but is often simplified to a single theoretical value. Here, we present TLSLeAF (Terrestrial Laser Scanning Leaf Angle Function), an automated open‐source method of deriving LADs from terrestrial laser scanning. TLSLeAF produces canopy‐scale leaf angle and LADs by relying on gridded laser scanning data. The approach increases processing speed, improves angle estimates, and requires minimal user input. Key features are automation, leaf–wood classification, beta parameter output, and implementation in R to increase accessibility for the ecology community. TLSLeAF precisely estimates leaf angle with minimal distance effects on angular estimates while rapidly producing LADs on a consumer‐grade machine. We challenge the popular spherical LAD assumption, showing sensitivity to ecosystem type in plant area index and foliage profile estimates that translate to c. 25% and c. 11% increases in canopy net photosynthesis (c. 25%) and solar‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence (c. 11%). TLSLeAF can now be applied to the vast catalog of laser scanning data already available from ecosystems around the globe. The ease of use will enable widespread adoption of the method outside of remote‐sensing experts, allowing greater accessibility for addressing ecological hypotheses and large‐scale ecosystem modeling efforts.

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a b s t r a c tMicrocavity plasma devices show promise for controlled plasma chemistry. However, these devices are typically made through processes that are difficult to scale up. We present the design and characterization of a microchannel system suitable for the study of microplasmas. The channel was created with a micro-mill CNC machine that allows for quick device manufacturing. The channel is characterized using scanning electron microscopy and profilometry. Finally, we use recently published models of flow in a microchannel with bends to elucidate pressure conditions throughout the channel. Future work will encompass characterization of plasma conditions. Ó 2015 Published by Elsevier B.V.