Plasma Definition and Technology
Plasma is commonly described in nature as the fourth state of matter, and is also known as the most widespread phenomena in the universe. Plasma typically takes the form of neutral gas-like clouds (e.g. stars, and our sun). It is considered distinct from other lower-energy states of matter; most commonly solids, liquids and gas, although it is closely related to the gas phase in that it also has no definite form or volume.
Plasma rarely occurs naturally on earth, and when it does, its effects are visually and energetically dramatic. Lighting storms are one example, another is the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights, seen as energy pours into earth’s atmosphere. A less-known plasma phenomenon just discovered in 1980 is described as “Earth's Plasma Fountain", occurring as oxygen, helium, and hydrogen ions gush into space from regions near the Earth's magnetic poles.
In science, and scientific research, the physics of plasma is widely understood, written about and utilized. Plasma is either key, or an adjunct in subjects with seemingly esoteric names, ranging from “Astrophysical Plasma”, “Magnetic Confinement Fusion”, “Magnetohydrodynamics” and “Ion Thrust Propulsion” (which may one day power interstellar vehicles).
In our practical world, there is a large array of very common areas of plasma utilization in everyday life. These include; fluorescent lighting, neon signage, the electric arc in some flood lamps, metal welding, and plasma cutting torches. Even more recently, in Plasma displays for televisions, and computers.
Plasmas have only recently been incorporated into a variety of sculptural art forms using plasma ionization by high frequency electrical current. In this way creating illuminated sculptures that have the ability to display a visual lighting effect of movement and colors found in no other medium. Although this technology is considered cutting edge, and in its infancy, much has been learned to be able to control specific and desired effects. Yet, it is likely that there is still much yet to be discovered.
One of the most common of these art forms is the “Plasma Globe”, first pioneered by Mr. Larry Albright. It is essentially a sealed sphere of Pyrex scientific glass. Within the sphere is a gas mixture primarily made up of inert gases such as neon, krypton, xenon, argon, helium, and nitrogen, all at varying levels of concentration or inclusion depending on the desired effects of movement and colors. With specific attention to how these gases are mixed, and at what level of (less than) atmospheric pressure within the glass, a fairly wide range of effects are possible. They can range from slow and subtle motions, to more energetic and chaotic actions.
The electrical power source used in these works is based on high-frequency power supplies that essentially broadcast a field of electro-magnetic energy into the glass that lights up the gas mixtures. Because of this high-voltage, high-frequency energy source, there is the possibility of receiving a rather jarring, yet minor electrical shock when touching pieces mounted in any conducting materials. However, due to the low amperage output of these units, shocks such as this are not hazardous, and can be simply unexpected, and exciting.
These Plasma works tend to last for many years. Under normal cicumstances, they will not suddenly stop working unless the power supply burns out, or they are physically damaged, or the glass vessel is broken. However, after many years the brightness and action of the plasmas can diminish. At which point they can typically be re-filled with a mixture of gases to nearly duplicate the original effects, or an entirely new effect and colors can be achieved.