2.45 GHz waveguide plasma generation in cylindrical structures

A surfaguide device was optimized, realized and used for the ignition of a plasma column to be used as a radiating structure. A plasma diagnostic technique was also developed to evaluate the plasma column length with respect to the power supplied. These measurements highlighted that plasma antenna properties are strongly affected by the pump signal and therefore this signal has to be optimized in order to have the highest conductivity. Finally, the efficiency of the column used as an antenna was evaluated.