A device for forming an ion sheath in a plasma to deposit coatings on a
non-conducting substrate. The device comprises a tubular reaction chamber
having an outer surface wound helically with a first electrode having a
first width. Helical winding of the first electrode provides a plurality
of first wraps around the outer surface of the tubular reaction chamber.
The device further includes a second electrode having a second width that
is larger than the first width. Helical winding of the second electrode
provides a plurality of second wraps alternating with the first wraps
around the outer surface of the tubular reaction chamber. An ion sheath
in a plasma forms to a thickness extending at least to the longitudinal
axis of the tubular reaction chamber when the first electrode has a
connection to a source of radio-frequency power and the second electrode
provides a path to ground.