Glow discharge-like characteristics of a OAUGDP revealed by computer modeling

Summary form only given. Previously, we experimentally and numerically demonstrated the existence and operation of the one atmosphere uniform glow discharge plasma (OAUGDP). In this discharge, the electron energy and density, as well as other plasma characteristics, are functions of time. This time-dependence is best studied by computer modeling, and has been extensively carried out for an atmospheric helium plasma. Preliminary results with an atmospheric air plasma are now available. Our OAUGDP is energized by low frequency RF, on the order of a few kilohertz, and is formed in a relatively large gap (several mm in air) between plane parallel electrodes, with a dielectric barrier on one or both. For the proper values of gap distance, RF driving frequency, and rms voltage, the OAUGDP operates uniformly, without producing filamentary microdischarges. Such an OAUGDP provides a simple, inexpensive and efficient source of active species for surface treatment, cleaning or decontamination that can be carried our in an industrial context. Previous experimental investigations have been augmented with a one dimensional self consistent model to study the role played by the seed electron density before the discharge is turned on to initiate a glow regime at high pressure.