… In particular, we have shown that metallic foams provide geometric trapping and interface/sheath
manipulation that can exhibit persistent sputtering yield reductions of 40% to over 80%
compared to a flat surface under 100 to 300 eV argon plasma bombardment. These results
show a strong yield dependence based on the relationship between foam geometry and
plasma sheath size. For foam pore sizes near or larger than the sheath thickness, the …
Opportunities for plasma-infused materials in space propulsion and fusion will be discussed. …

Material sputtering provides challenges for plasma devices from space propulsion to fusion.
In this talk, Prof. Wirz will discuss plasma-material interactions for plasma thrusters and
recent developments towards fusion plasma materials. Plasma thrusters are predominantly
driven by thruster component lifetime through erosion and ion and electron induced``facility
effects''during ground testing that obfuscate the thruster's anticipated on-orbit performance.
Recent developments in these areas have revealed material approaches that may help …