Plasma-Assisted Technologies: Global Advances and Applications — Edited by Dr. Igor Matveev with Contributions from International Coauthors

Volume 3 of the Plasma-Assisted Combustion (PAC) series expands the scope of the earlier works into the broader domain of Plasma-Assisted Technologies, addressing challenges and opportunities that extend from Earth-based environmental solutions to advanced space applications. Drawing upon original experimental research conducted at Applied Plasma Technologies, Corp., the International Plasma Technology Center, Corp., and in collaboration with colleagues across five countries, this volume provides a comprehensive account of cutting-edge developments in plasma science and engineering. The book opens with an in-depth treatment of plasma gasification of wastewater sludge, highlighting its global importance and underscoring plasma’s role in advancing sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. Subsequent chapters present research on space technology development, including the testing of thermal protection materials and the design of planetary life support systems, demonstrating the versatility of plasma processes across terrestrial and extraterrestrial domains. Unlike a collection of reprints, this volume is a cohesive compilation of original contributions from more than 14 experts, supported by rigorous peer review and careful technical editing. Together, these works illustrate the power of long-term collaboration in shaping a growing field. Designed for senior undergraduates, graduate students, PhD researchers, practicing engineers, and professionals, this book provides both foundational knowledge and practical insights into plasma-assisted technologies. By bridging theory, experimentation, and application, Volume 3 serves as a reliable reference for academic, industrial, and research communities seeking to harness plasma processes for innovation, sustainability, and exploration.

Dr. Igor Matveev, Chief Editor of this book, is a globally recognized expert in Plasma-Assisted Technologies, with more than 1,200 plasma systems developed under his leadership and deployed around the world. He received his M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from the Nikolaev Shipbuilding Institute (Ukraine) in 1977, and earned his Ph.D. in 1984 with a dissertation titled “Development and Implementation of Plasma Ignition Systems for Naval Gas Turbines”, which laid the groundwork for his pioneering work in plasma-assisted technologies. From 1977 to 1990, Dr. Matveev served as a researcher, lecturer, and associate professor at the Nikolaev Shipbuilding Institute. In recognition of his contributions to science and technology, he was honored as Citizen of the Year in his hometown of Nikolaev in 1996. From 2000 to 2002, he worked as an international consultant for the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), focusing on energy and water conservation. Since 2003, Dr. Matveev has served as President and CEO of Applied Plasma Technologies in Marshall, Virginia, driving innovation in high-power plasma systems for industrial, energy, and environmental applications. His commitment to advancing the field extends to academia and professional service. Since 2004, he has been a Guest Editor for the IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science special issues on Plasma-Assisted Technologies. He also served as Organizing Committee Chair for the 2nd through 12th International Conference on Plasma-Assisted Technologies (ICPAT).