Particle Size Determination in Electrical Arcs Using X-Ray Scattering

Abstract

This article discusses recent synchrotron radiation based measurements of nanoparticle formation between arcing contacts.

Particle size determination in electrical arcs with Ag and AgSnO2 electrodes using X-ray scattering

“…The experimental apparatus (fig. 1) is a fully automated device, described in previous papers [3][4][5]. The apparatus is 2 mainly composed of an electrical part (power supply, variable resistance) and a mechanical part using a stepping motor coupled with a sliding plate, which ensures a controlled separation between the fixed and the moving contact.…”

“…Due to the arc temperature, T > 5000 K [2], the nanoparticles are probably formed on the periphery of the plasma where the temperature gradient allows condensation processes to occur. We have already reported our results for carbon, silver and silver-tinoxide (AgSnO 2 ) contacts [3][4][5][6] where we found that the size and character of the nanoparticles were a clear function of the materials. While AgSnO 2 electrodes have been found to generate particles with smooth surfaces in the range of 30-40 nm in diameter, pure silver contacts produce aggregated particles.…”