Vacuum Arc Science and technology is a comprehensive text describing the basic
physics and technolgoical applications of vacuum arcs. It represents the first
major update on both the physics of the cathodic arc and the technology and
applications of arc devices.
Part I describes basic physics of the vacuum arc, beginning with a brief
tutorial review of plasma and electrical discharge physics, then describes the
are ignition process, then describes the are ignition process, cathode and anode
spots which serve as the locus for plasma generation, and restaurant
interelectrode plasma.
Part II describes the applications of the vacuum arc for depositiong thin films
and coatings, refining metals,