VSP-G1 User Manual
This is the comprehensive User Manual for the VSParticle Generator One Spark Generator (VSP-G1). The Quick Start Guide is available as a quick reference for standard operation of the VSP-G1 unit.
VSParticle
Molengraafssingel, 10
2629JD Delft
The Netherlands
info@vsparticle.com
www.vsparticle.com
Introduction
The VSParticle Generator One Spark Generator (VSP-G1) is designed for researchers ("users") studying material properties who want to easily produce inorganic nanoparticles from conductive materials. Ease of use allows the user to control the size (1 atom to 20 nm) and production rate (xx – xx). The user can use different gases and electrode materials for a wider range of combinations, including the use of electrodes of different materials. The closed system and design of inner chamber results in high purity with no polymers near the ablation zone. Gas-based production eliminates the need for chemicals/surfactants or precursors. The reactor can easily be customized to allow cross flow, co-flow, through flow (standard) and combined configurations.
The production rate depends on the energy input into the spark, and material properties of the electrode. The VSP-G1 operates up to 60W, which corresponds to ablation rates up to ~100 mg/h for e.g. Au. Particle size is a function of the production rate and the flow rate. The spark gap is controlled automatically, allowing continuous operation. The spark generator is designed for a broad operating window, making it suitable for applications ranging from cluster research to materials science.
The closed system provides a safer production of nanoparticles and can easily be dismantled for safe transport of produced nanoparticles as well as for system cleaning and maintenance. Periodic cleaning and replacing of electrodes can be easily performed by the users with a safe, simple and fast (<20 mins) protocol.
The output of the system consists of a gas stream filled with particles, with no polluting by-products formed during production. The particles are made available as an aerosol, allowing the user to choose a suitable deposition method for his or her substrates. VSParticle can help select/develop a deposition system fitted to your specific needs.
The portability of the VSP-G1 system allows it to be integrated into a larger system for more complex operating procedures.
How to use this manual
This user manual provides instructions for the set-up, installation, operation and maintenance of a VSP-G1 unit. Before operating the VSP-G1 unit, please read the manual with careful attention to the safety section and to the warnings provided throughout the manual, indicated by the following symbols:
(symbols used in the manual)
| (Short index of manual and a 1 sentence summary of each chapter/section) |
A quick start guide is also included for faster set-up as part of the standard operating procedure. For more information regarding safety and more complex operations as well as troubleshooting and maintenance, please refer to this manual.
System and User safety
Working with nanoparticles
Intended use of the VSP-G1
(Unintended use as a warning box)
Warning of residual risks
Non-ionizing radiation
(viewport, screen, UV)
Noise emissions
Protective measures
Stability conditions
System Description
What's in the box
- VSP-G1 Unit:
- Reactor
- Base unit with reactor mount
- Cu electrodes
- Cables
- Quick Start Guide
- EC Declaration of Conformity
- Warranty
Mount tool
Reactor
Base unit
Cables
Setting up
Foreseeable misuse (present as warning boxes where applicable)
Setting up the base unit
Assembling the reactor
Electrodes
Mounting the reactor
(warning box: stability conditions)
Process connections
Flow configurations
Final set up checklist
Operating the system
Standard procedure
(text becomes foundation of quick start guide... link also to quick start guide like this: This section is also available as a Quick Start Guide. (hyperlink))
Manual controls
Atypical situations
System care
Maintenance Protocols
Regular use
Periodic maintenance
Safe handling and storage
Safe transportation
Troubleshooting
Error messages and how to resolve them
Common issues and how to resolve them
When to contact VSParticle
(text box with contact information)
Accessories and Replacement Parts
Electrodes
Appendices
Theory/Background
(ask TC how to mirror the Technology page of VSP website) The technology behind VSP-G1
Literature
A compiled list of literature applicable to VSP-G1's technology and applications. Set up to open in new window
Detailed communication set up
Configurations
Command syntax
Command list
VSP-G1 Technical specifications
Unit Specifications
Power 110-240V AC Dimensions Casing ca. 52x30x20cm Reactor added height ca. 10cm Weight 19kg Gas inlet/outlet 10mm tubes (with Swagelok connectors) Display 16x2 characters Digital output RS232
Operating Window
Flow rate 1-30 L/min Gas Supported: Ar or N2 (recommended purity 5.0)
Unsupported: He, Ne, Xe, Kr
Contact VSParticle for the use of reactive gases such as air and H2.Electrode material Comes with Cu electrodes.
Various other metals (e.g. Ag, Au, Pt, W, Ni), semiconductors and carbon are possible.Primary particle size 1 atom to 20 nm Ablation rate ~0.01-100 mg/h (material dependent) Typical particle concentration 108-1011 cm-3
EC Declaration of Conformity
Warranty
Edited by Kate Groves 11:13, 13 September 2016 (CEST)
