PLASMA SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH GROUP
UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES BAGUIO
Established in 2016 through the Institution Development Program (IDP) of the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), the Plasma Physics Research Group at UP Baguio serves as a dynamic hub for innovative research and education in plasma physics and technology. This pioneering initiative provides a robust platform for students and researchers to delve into plasma-related thesis works and institution-funded projects, significantly advancing the frontiers of science in the region.
The Plasma Physics Laboratory is at the heart of this research group, concentrating on plasma diagnostics, plasma processing of materials and biological samples, and the simulation of atmospheric pressure plasmas. Since its inception, the laboratory has achieved remarkable milestones, contributing substantially to both academic and scientific communities. Among these accomplishments are:
Mentorship and Graduation:
Successfully mentored and graduated around 40 students from the BS Physics and Biology programs, fostering a new generation of skilled scientists.
Student Engagement:
Hosted nearly 20 students from the Philippine Science High School for their Immersion Program, providing hands-on experience and inspiring young minds to pursue careers in science and technology.
Scholarly Contributions:
Presented over 20 scientific papers at prestigious national and international conferences, showcasing groundbreaking research and developments.
Balik-Scientist Program:
Welcomed Dr. Jethro Salapare, a distinguished scientist, through the Balik-Scientist Program, enriching the research environment with his expertise and global perspective.
Publications:
Published six significant research papers in reputable scientific journals, reflecting the high quality and impact of the research conducted.
Interdisciplinary Collaborations:
Forged strong partnerships with various universities and collaborated across disciplines within UP Baguio, including Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Geology, and Social Sciences, promoting a holistic approach to scientific inquiry and innovation.
The Plasma Physics Research Group at UP Baguio stands as a testament to the power of collaborative research and education, driving progress and fostering excellence in the field of plasma physics. Through its continued efforts, the group not only advances scientific knowledge but also contributes to the development of skilled researchers and professionals poised to address the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Research Projects:
Completed six research projects, each contributing valuable insights and advancements in the field of plasma physics.
Announced that a Physics Laboratory will open at UP Baguio
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International Publications
[1] Ocampo, Isaiah, et.al.: Ar/02 Atmospheric plasma jet treatment of pure cotton fabric for antibacterial application; Plasma and Fusion Research, Volume 13, 3406116 (2018), DOI: 10.1585/pfr. 13.3406116
[2] Baoanan, Klanz, et.al.: Synthesis of silver nanoparticles on stainless steel for antibacterial applications via atmospheric pressure plasma jet – APJSME-2019-215Asia-Pacific Journal of Science, Mathematics and Engineering (APJSME – ISSN 2244-5471)
[3] Buensuceso, Jaun Lawrence, et.al.: Production of Plasma-Activated Water via Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet to Prolong the Shelf Life of Strawberries APJSME-2019-214 Asia-Pacific Journal of Science, Mathematics and Engineering (APJSME – ISSN 2244-5471)
[4] Malapit, G, et.al.; Bactericidal efficiency of silver nanoparticles deposited on polyester fabric using atmospheric pressure plasma jet system. https://doi.org/10.1080/00405000.2021.1954426
[5] Baculi, R. et.al.: Atmospheric pressure plasma deposition of silver nanoparticles on bark fabric for bacterial growth inhibition. https://doi.org/10.1080/00405000.2021.2024378
[6] Antonio, J., et. al.: Lead (Pb 2+ ) removal in water using different forms of spent arabica coffee grounds at varying contact time.
August 2022 ES Web of Conferences 355(1)
DOI: 10.1051/esconf/202235502001
Conference: Research, Invention, and Innovation Congress at Bangkok, Thailand
BS Physics & BS Biology Theses
Antibacterial Effects of Silver Nanoparticle-coated Traditional Cordillera Textiles using Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet:
Plasma technology that operates at atmospheric pressure is increasingly used for surface modification of heat-sensitive materials to confer antibacterial properties. In this study, atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) system was used to deposit silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for antibacterial application into bark fabric used in the Cordillera Region, Philippines. Plasma was produced by applying 15 kV to silver electrodes while the argon and oxygen gases were allowed to flow at 15 and 5 liters per minute (LPM), respectively. Characterization of plasma by optical emission spectroscopy (OES) suggests the formation of active plasma species. The observed surface roughness which consequently enhanced the adsorption of AgNPs was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and wavelength dispersive x-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) analyses. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy – attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) results further revealed the removal of surface impurities as indicated by the production of carbon dioxide. Qualitative and quantitative antibacterial assays proved the efficiency of the samples in inhibiting the growth of bacteria namely Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. The antibacterial efficiency of the samples proportionally increased with longer plasma treatment time. Atmospheric pressure plasma jet could serve as a promising deposition technique with potential application in the production of antibacterial fabrics.
Funding Agency:
Cordillera Studies Center (CSC) UP Baguio
Scanning electron micrographs revealing the presence of deposited silver nanoparticles in the A) control and polyester fabric exposed to atmospheric plasma for B) 1 min C) 3 min, and D) 5 min.
Effect of Oxygen-Argon Plasma Irradiation on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Vigna radiata using a Novel Atmospheric Plasma Jet System:
The effects of Argon-Oxygen (Ar-Oz) plasma on the seed germination and seedling growth were investigated by irradiation of Vigna radiata seeds using the atmospheric pressure plasma jet system. Scanning electron microscopy showed that wax depositions on the seed coat of the plasma-treated seeds were reduced. The resulting increase in the germination rate was associated with this modification, suggesting an increase in water and nutrient absorption by the seeds. Optical emission spectroscopy (OES) detected the presence of argon, oxygen, and niobium species. However, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) showed no incorporation of niobium species in the treated seeds. Peroxidases were also found present in the treated seeds, which suggests the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on the enhanced plant growth. After 30 days, growth measurement of the samples showed that plasma-treated plants have significantly increased shoot and root lengths, and plant weight.
Funding Agency:
Cordillera Studies Center (CSC) UP Baguio
Anthropological Analysis, Mathematical Symmetry and Technical Characterization of Cordillera Textiles:
Funding Agency:
Emerging Interdisciplinary Research (EIDR)
Plasma Science and Technology
Research Group
University of the Philippine Baguio
College of Science
Department of Physical Sciences