The Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPL) of the National Institute of Physics (NIP) harnesses plasma, the fourth state of matter, is the substance that makes up the sun and lightning, to develop innovative technologies. The laboratory is the brainchild of Dr. Henry Ramos, Professor of Physics at the College of Science (CS) of the University of the Philippines Diliman (UP Diliman). The laboratory, which Dr. Ramos founded during the late 1980’s, aims to create plasma systems/devices in order for physicists and researchers to acquire practical knowledge and skills in employing technologies based on plasma physics.

The PPL has developed a process technology using low-temperature plasma in coating (with titanium nitride) cutting tools such as knives, drill bits, coining dies, jewelries, smart glass and semiconductor materials.