Abstract: A method for utilizing microwave generated multi-bubble plasma to treat an effluent is provided. The method comprises: providing a microwave field; flowing an effluent and gas bubbles in the effluent across the microwave field; enhancing electromagnetic field in a path of the gas bubbles in the microwave field via an electrode; triggering plasma in the gas bubbles as the gas bubbles reach a region of enhanced electromagnetic field; and coupling microwave to the plasma.

Abstract: A system for repairing a crack in a component, or forming a joint between two components, is described. The system includes a filler material; a plasma-generating material; and a ceramic cover that is positioned around the crack, or around an interface region between two components that are to be joined. The filler material is positioned proximate to the crack or the interface region; and the plasma generating material is positioned in the vicinity of the crack or the interface region. A microwave generator for generating a microwave field inside an enclosure region enclosed by the cover, and proximate to the crack or interface region, also forms part of the system. Related methods for filling at least one cavity in a casting component are also described.

Abstract: A method of making a soft magnetic material with fine grain structure is provided. The method includes the steps of providing a soft magnetic starting material; heating the soft magnetic starting material to a temperature at which the material has a microstructure comprising at least two solid phases; and deforming the soft magnetic starting material. An electrical device comprising a magnetic component is provided. The magnetic component comprises a soft magnetic material having a grain size less than about 3 micrometers. The material has a composition that comprises at least two solid phases at temperatures greater than about 500° C.

Abstract: A regenerator having a thermal diffusivity matrix is presented. The thermal diffusivity matrix includes magneto-caloric material having multiple miniature protrusions intimately packed to form a gap between the protrusions. A fluid path is provided within the gap to facilitate flow of a heat exchange fluid and further provide efficient thermal exchange between the heat exchange fluid and magneto-caloric material. A first layer is disposed on each of the miniature protrusion to physically isolate the heat exchange fluid and magneto-caloric material, wherein the first layer further includes a soft magnetic material configured to simultaneously enhance a permeability and a thermal efficiency of the thermal diffusivity matrix.

Abstract: A method of making a soft magnetic material with fine grain structure is provided. The method includes the steps of providing a soft magnetic starting material; heating the soft magnetic starting material to a temperature at which the material has a microstructure comprising at least two solid phases; and deforming the soft magnetic starting material. An electrical device comprising a magnetic component is provided. The magnetic component comprises a soft magnetic material having a grain size less than about 3 micrometers. The material has a composition that comprises at least two solid phases at temperatures greater than about 500° C.