Simulation using high-power lc arc plasma for diagnosing plasma parameters and nanoparticle formation from a meteorite sample

Abstract

Meteorite classification is fundamental to understanding their geochemical and mineralogical composition. This study explores a novel approach to classification by analyzing the spectral emission ratios of key elements generated from the plasma formed around meteorites. When entering Earth's atmosphere meteorites experience extreme thermal and mechanical stress due to high-velocity air resistance leading to plasma formation and fragmentation. To reproduce such conditions a high-power LC-type device is introduced here for the first time to generate plasma in a controlled laboratory environment. Using a power output of up to 300 watts this device enabled the ablation of a real meteorite target in a vacuum chamber producing plasma spectra under low-pressure conditions (1–4 mbar) and a power input of 2000 watts. The study examined Fe I emission lines at wavelengths of 526.9, 532.8, 537.1, 539.7, 540.5, 542.9, and 543.4 nm. Using the Boltzmann plot method and Stark broadening analysis the plasma parameters including temperature and electron number density are determined. This work introduces a promising technique for enhancing meteorite classification through controlled plasma spectroscopy.  Additionally, the ablation of the meteorite surface under high-energy plasma conditions is examined as a possible mechanism for nanoparticle formation.