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Charging of Dust Particles in Plasma Physics: Mechanisms, Theory, and Applications

Abdullahi Nafisat Yusuf, Amos Moses

Abstract

The charging of dust particles immersed in plasma environments represents a fundamental process in complex plasma physics with wide-ranging implications for space exploration, fusion energy research, and industrial applications. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of dust charging mechanisms, theoretical frameworks, and experimental investigations. We examine the foundational Orbital Motion Limited theory and its recent extensions, the role of electron emission processes (photoelectric and secondary electron emission), and the effects of magnetic fields on charging dynamics. Particular attention is given to the "charge pumping" mechanism recently identified in combined plasma-ultraviolet environments, which significantly enhances dust charging in microcavities. We discuss charge fluctuation phenomena, kinetic simulation approaches, and applications to planetary environments, tokamak fusion devices, and dusty plasma crystals. The paper synthesizes current theoretical understanding with cutting-edge experimental results from facilities including the Magnetized Dusty Plasma eXperiment , providing a foundation for future research in this rapidly evolving field.

Keywords

dusty plasmadust chargingorbital motion limited theorysecondary electron emissionphotoelectric emissionmagnetic field effectscharge fluctuationscomplex plasma

References

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