Collection of microorganisms levitating in a radio-frequency discharge

Abstract

This research aimed to clarify the physical effects of plasma on microorganisms levitated in radio-frequency (RF) plasma and to develop a technology for classifying and confining microorganisms by controlling their behavior when levitated. In the experiment, multiple types of microorganisms were injected into the RF plasma one by one, and their behavior was analyzed. An external electric field was applied to the plasma. The experimental results revealed that the behavior of the levitated microorganisms differs depending on the species and the magnitude of RF discharge power.