Electric plasma guided with ultrasonic fields.

Abstract

Electric plasma forms sparks in midair that transfer electrical current. This current can power high-voltage electronics, kill bacteria, produce tactile sensations, or be used for welding. However, the formation of the spark is chaotic and hard to control. Laser pulses can guide discharges but require high power and are disruptive and cumbersome to control. Here, we show that ultrasonic fields can guide plasma sparks, even around obstacles. The ultrasonic beams can be directed dynamically and within milliseconds, enabling precise, nondangerous, and fast control of high-voltage sparks. This phenomenon can be used for applications in high-voltage switching and plasma treatments.