The 6th International Symposium on Plasmas for Catalysis and Energy Materials (ISPCEM) took place in Eindhoven from 10 to 12 July, 2024.
How did you experience this conference?
My experience at ISPCEM was both rewarding and inspiring. I learned more about plasma catalysis, but what I usually enjoy most in conferences is to see the innovative approaches that other scientists are taking to solve complex questions. Additionally, it was great to reconnect with scientists I’ve met at previous conferences as well as meeting some new people. A new experience for me was to be able to go home and sleep in my own bed during the conference, as the venue was also on TU/e campus, just 5 minutes walking distance from DIFFER.
What was the poster about?
The poster is about my research on improving catalytic probes. These probes can be a vital tool in developing and improving plasma processes for e.g. fertilizer production. They measure the density of radicals, which are highly reactive species created through splitting molecules in the plasma. The principle of measurement is simple: We deposit a well-defined catalytic surface on the probe, where radicals recombine in an exothermic reaction (giving off heat). This means that the temperature of this surface is proportional to the amount of radicals around the probe. The evaluation however is tricky as the surface temperature is also impacted by a few other processes. The poster is about designing a catalytic probe which can distinguish the heating from the radicals from other influences, making the evaluation more reliable.
How you feel about winning the poster prize?
When preparing posters or presentations I put a lot of effort into making clear schematics and an interesting, easy to follow story line. Winning the prize was a great reward, letting me know that these efforts are seen.
Go to the News page.