The onset of plasma potential locking

Journal Article · Wed Jun 15 04:00:00 EDT 2016 · Physics of Plasmas

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.4953896· OSTI ID:22600158

Yee, Benjamin T.; Barnat, Edward V. ^[1]; Baalrud, Scott D. ^[2]

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1. Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87008 (United States)
2. Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242 (United States)

In this paper, we provide insight into the role and impact that a positively biased electrode (anode) has on bulk plasma potential. Using two-dimensional Particle-in-Cell simulations, we investigate the plasma potential as an anode transitions from very small (“probe” mode) to large (“locking” mode). Prior theory provides some guidance on when and how this transition takes place. Initial experimental results are also compared. The simulations demonstrate that as the surface area of the anode is increased transitions in plasma potential and sheath polarity occur, consistent with experimental observations and theoretical predictions. It is expected that understanding this basic plasma behavior will be of interest to basic plasma physics communities, diagnostic developers, and plasma processing devices where control of bulk plasma potential is important.

• OSTI ID: 22600158
• Journal Information: Physics of Plasmas, Journal Name: Physics of Plasmas Journal Issue: 6 Vol. 23; ISSN PHPAEN; ISSN 1070-664X
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
ANODES
COMPARATIVE EVALUATIONS
FORECASTING
PLASMA
PLASMA POTENTIAL
SIMULATION
SURFACE AREA
TWO-DIMENSIONAL CALCULATIONS