Positively charged dust crystals induced by radiative heating

Abstract

In this paper, we consider theoretically conditions for forming crystals of positively charged dust, when the dust is heated by a laser or by a strong infrared source and emits electrons thermionically. We discuss parameters for grains dispersed in an inert gas at pressure of a few mbar. We briefly discuss levitation by forces associated with gas flow or photon flux. A possible experimental scheme for achieving such a crystal is briefly outlined.