Retrieving particle size and density from extinction measurement in dusty plasma, Monte Carlo inversion and Ray-tracing comparison

In this study, we present a Monte Carlo inversion procedure dedicated to the determination of particle size and density from extinction measurements. In order to check the validity of the method, a ray tracing code able to calculate the exact extinction coefficient for a given particle size distribution was developed. The inversion method was then applied to this numerically obtained results in order to retrieve the initial particle size distribution. We found that the method provides good estimations of the particle sizes and density. Finally, the inversion procedure was applied to experimental data obtained with visible and infra-red spectroscopy. A comparison between the calculated particle sizes and the ones measured from SEM micrography shows good agreements.

► We present an inverse method to get particles size and density from extinction data. ► We present a realistic simulation tool of the extinction diagnostic. ► We check the validity of the inverse method on numerically assessed data. ► We apply the inverse method on experimental results.