Join us for two engaging popularization lectures that bridge ancient philosophy and modern plasma science!
On Wednesday, November 5, Prof. Vít Kudrle will explore the classical element of fire through the lens of modern physics and introduce plasma as the fourth state of matter. On Thursday, November 6, dr. Zlata Kelar Tučeková will take you behind the scenes of the Plasma Nanotechnologies and Bioapplications (PNB) research group at the Department of Plasma Physics and Technology and CEPLANT, where plasma is studied and applied in industry, biology, and materials science.
Vít Kudrle – Is Fire Trully One of the fundamental Elements That Make Up the World?
Ancient philosophers imagined the world as being composed of four fundamental elements. But how does modern physics see it? If we broaden the concept of fire just a bit, we’ll find that the philosophers weren’t entirely wrong. We’ll introduce the concept of plasma, answer whether it truly is the fourth state of matter, and explore where plasma can be found in nature. We’ll also look at how humanity has managed – and continues to strive – to tame this wild element and harness it for the benefit of society. And finally, we’ll return to the question posed in the title: Is the world really made of fire?
Zlata Kelar Tučeková – What’s Burning in Plasma Nanotechnology and Bioapplication Labs – or How to Ignite Atmospheric Plasma in a Flash!
Come and see a presentation that will change the way you think about burning – not just fire… but discharges too! Have you ever wondered what lightning, the Sun, and the Northern Lights have in common? They’re all made of plasma, the fourth and most abundant state of matter in the universe. And what if we told you that we’ve harnessed this cosmic force right here on Earth – in a way that’s safe, clean, and applicable across countless industries?
We invite you to an engaging presentation that will reveal the fascinating world of plasma technologies. Through live demonstrations and videos, you’ll witness how we develop and use our unique atmospheric-pressure plasma sources, which generate plasma so “cold” it can gently treat even the most delicate materials – including biological ones like peas! From everyday products to the high-tech industries of tomorrow, plasma applications are expanding into exciting new areas.
Discover how:
- Powerful plasma burns with discharges close to room temperature
- We’re expanding industrial plasma applications using atmospheric discharges
- Plasma replaces aggressive chemicals and energy-intensive conventional processes
- We’re exploring new bioapplications of plasma in agriculture and medicine
This presentation is perfect for anyone with a curious mind – from students and young innovators to those interested in the future of sustainable technologies.