Large area microwave plasma apparatus with adaptable applicator

摘要

A microwave apparatus for sustaining a substantially uniform plasma over a relatively large area. The microwave apparatus comprises a vacuum vessel for sustaining the plasma in a plasma region thereof. The apparatus further comprises a nonevanescent microwave applicator having means for controlling the cutoff frequency thereof. The microwave applicator may comprise a waveguide and a volume of dielectric material disposed within the waveguide. Alternately, the microwave applicator may comprise ridge waveguide.