Manipulation of droplet and crystal growth by Paul effect

Abstract

Crystal growth in the microgravity is attracting attention for material science because it is possible to produce a uniform crystal. A purpose of this research is to manipulate a small droplet with a diameter of nano-micro meters by Paul effect and to vaporize for producing a crystal. In case a cyli ndrical electrode between cap-electrodes is charged, a micro particle of whatever solid, liquid and solution is manipulated a sim ple harmonic motion behavior. An electrical charge of trapped particles is derived from analyzing a motion of vibration par ticles using high-speed camera. Applied voltage and frequency are adjusted to control a position of the particle. Fin ally, we succeed to fabricate crystals of sodium and KDP.