Practical and theoretical considerations on the use of ICCD imaging for the characterization of non-equilibrium plasmas

Over the past decade the use of ICCD cameras as a means for characterizing non-equilibrium plasmas has been steadily increasing. Due to their high sensitivity and high speed gateability, ICCD cameras enable time-resolved studies of the anatomy and, when adopted in conjunction with filters, monochromators, spectrometers or laser systems, time-resolved investigation of physical and chemical properties of non-equilibrium plasma discharges. This paper is meant as an introduction to ICCD technology and its use as a plasma diagnostic technique, discussing the experimental problems typically associated with its use and providing the readers with practical examples and suggestions on how to address them. In particular, the issues of ICCD camera synchronization with the voltage pulse driving the plasma discharge and of investigating small volume discharges are addressed, focusing mainly on the case of non-equilibrium atmospheric pressure plasma jets. Finally, a possible way to achieve absolute calibration of plasma discharge emission is presented and discussed. A wide range of data, mostly unpublished, is provided here to illustrate the points.