Development of a low-cost plasma source using fly-back transformer for atmospheric pressure gliding arc discharge

Abstract

This study outlines the development of a cost-effective power supply tailored for generating atmospheric pressure gliding arc discharge, primarily for non-thermal plasma processes. We conduct a comprehensive analysis of discharge characteristics using optical and electrical methods, focusing on parameters such as discharge temperature, plasma density, and current-voltage characteristics. The output voltage (VRMS) of the power supply increases within the range of (7.67±0.41) to (26.71±0.88) kV. Our findings indicate that arc velocity increases with the increase in airflow rate, whereas it is reduced with the increase in applied voltage. The power consumption of the discharge falls within 8.55–18.34 W for applied voltages ranging from 12.00 to 20.00 V. The electron temperature and density decrease toward the electrode outlet, with values of 1.194 ± 0.024 eV and (0.66±0.17)×1017 cm−3, respectively, at the outermost region. Variations in applied voltage affect both electron temperature and density. Additionally, airflow and applied voltage influence rotational and vibrational temperatures, with maximum values observed at the lowermost equilibrium position for increased airflow. Our findings demonstrate a non-thermodynamic equilibrium discharge, as evidenced by the fact that the electron temperature exceeds vibrational temperature and vibrational temperature exceeds rotational temperature. The suggested techniques are both practical and efficient, with a straightforward construction process, and have been demonstrated to be applicable in the agricultural field.