Simulation of an asymmetric single dielectric barrier plasma actuator

Continuity equations governing electron and ion density are solved with Poisson’s equation to obtain spatial and temporal profiles of electron density, ion density, and voltage. The motion of electrons and ions results in charge separation and generation of an electrostatic electric field. Electron deposition downstream of the overlap region of the electrode results in formation of a virtual negative electrode that always attracts the charge separation. The value of charge separation e(ni−ne) and the force per volume F=e(ni−ne)E have been obtained near the dielectric surface for the 50th cycle. Domain integration of the force F=e(ni−ne)E has been obtained for different plasma densities, frequencies, and rf voltage wave forms. The time average of the x force is positive and the y force is negative over the domain; therefore there is an average net force on the plasma in the positive x and negative y directions. This will result in a moving wave of plasma over the dielectric surface in the positive x direction, which can find application in flow control.