Microwave-induced plasma-promoted materials synthesis.

The discovery of new materials requires the development of a diversity of synthetic techniques. Microwave methods offer the opportunity to synthesise and modify the composition, structure and morphology of materials, particularly composites via differential heating. Microwave-induced plasmas (MIPs) allow any solid mixture to be heated, and can promote direct microwave heating at elevated temperature, greatly expanding the use of microwaves for reactions between solids and gas-solid mixtures.