A theoretical model considering the photochemical and photothermal behavior of arc radiation-induced gassing materials ablation

Abstract

Abstract In this study, we introduce a theoretical model designed to explore both the photochemical and photothermal behavior of arc plasma radiation-induced ablation in gassing materials. We employ time-dependent density functional theory to analyze the photochemical behavior, while reactive force field molecular dynamics are used to explore the photothermal behavior. The phenomena, behavior and consequences of valence shell electronic excitation are analyzed in terms of ultraviolet (UV) absorption, electron-hole distribution, and Mayer bond order. Based on the photochemical findings, we apply a periodic electric field that corresponds to the vibration frequency of the permanent dipole moment to simulate infrared radiation, and convert UV photon energy into atomic kinetic energy to analyze UV radiation. This atomic-scale insight into photothermal behavior enables us to identify the final composition of ablation gases, including H2, CO, H2O, NH3, as well as specific cyanides, amines, and hydrocarbons. The results of the theoretical model and physical properties indicate that the concentration of hydrogen-containing gases in the ablation gas significantly affects the arc extinguishing capabilities of different polymers. Finally, we propose modification schemes suitable for polymers in power circuit breakers, considering UV absorption and smoke black production. Additionally, we present the potential application of theoretical models for calculating the ablation rate, necessitating further in-depth re-search.