Plasma is associated with stars, lightning or neon lights, but it is also quietly at work in factories here on Earth. From microchips and medical implants to aircraft engines, this ionised “fourth state of matter” has become one of industry’s most powerful cleaning tools. A recent review by Stephen Sammut, of the Malta College of Arts, Science and
Lightning is a natural example of plasma forming in Earth’s atmosphere through rapid electrical breakdown. Inside a thundercloud, collisions between ice particles separate electric charges, creating a strong electric field between the cloud base and the ground. When this field becomes intense enough, it ionises the surrounding air, stripping electrons
Science and innovation are fundamental drivers of social and economic progress. They shape the way societies evolve, economies grow, and global challenges are addressed. Yet, in scientific fields, despite advancements in gender equality, many women continue to face barriers that undermine not only their participation but also their career prospects
