Plasmas in and in contact with liquid for synthesis and surface engineering of carbon and silicon nanoparticles

Two types of plasma-liquid systems are discussed from the point of view of their capabilities for synthesis and surface engineering of nanomaterials. The high-voltage discharge between two electrodes submerged into liquid is used for the synthesis of carbon and silicon nanoparticles (NPs). The second system based on the gas–liquid interfacial discharge plasma generated between a capillary (hollow needle) with flowing argon and liquid surface is used for surface modification of as-prepared NPs directly in solution. The capabilities of the non-equilibrium gas–liquid discharge plasma for surface modification and improvement of photoluminescent properties of carbon and silicon NPs by their surface functionalization are discussed. The morphology and composition of the generated particles are examined in dependence both on plasma parameters and plasma induced processes in solution.