The two-dimensional spatial distribution of microdischarges in atmospheric pressure dielectric-barrier discharges (DBDs) in air was studied. Experimental images of DBDs (Lichtenberg figures) were obtained using photostimulable phosphors. The storage phosphor imaging method takes advantage of the linear response of the phosphor for characterization of microdischarge intensity and position. A microdischarge interaction model in DBDs is proposed and a Monte Carlo simulation of microdischarge interactions in the discharge is presented. Comparison of modelled and experimental images indicates interactions and short-range structuring of microdischarge channels.
Although microdischarges in dielectric-barrier discharges (DBDs) have been studied for the past century, their mutual interaction was explained only recently. This interaction is responsible for the formation of microdischarge patterns reminiscent of two-dimensional crystals. Depending on the application, microdischarge patterns may have a significant influence on DBD performance, particularly when spatial uniformity is desired. This paper presents the results of study of regular microdischarge pattern formation in DBD in air at atmospheric pressure. Experimental images of DBD (Lichtenberg figures) were obtained using photostimulable phosphors. A new method for analysis of microdischarge patterns that allow measuring the degree of pattern regularity was developed. Simulated and experimental patterns were compared using the newly developed method and comparison indicates the presence of interaction between microdischarges. Analysis of microdischarge patterns shows that regularity of the patterns increases with the number of excitation cycles used to produce the pattern.
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