Versatile power generator for the parametric study of DBD excimer lamps supply and its optimization

This work presents the use of a current-mode static converter to study the possible operating points of a Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) excimer lamp and to select the optimal operating conditions. This converter is capable to inject a pulsed current within the bulb, controlling three independent parameters of these pulses: amplitude I, duration δ and frequency f. Indeed, a given average value of electric power P injected into an excimer lamp does not necessarily produce the same UV radiated power Puv. There are evidences that variables such as f and δ affect the luminous efficacy of the lamp. An experimental setup and a procedure dedicated to the identification of optimal operating points, in terms of energy efficiency, are detailed. Examples with KrCl and XeCl lamps showing reductions in the energy consumption are shown.