Electron kinetics in a positive column of AC discharges in a dynamic regime

Abstract We have performed hybrid kinetic-fluid simulations of a positive column in alternating current (AC) argon discharges over range driving frequencies f and gas pressure p for the conditions when spatial nonlocality electron energy distribution function (EEDF) is substantial. Our confirmed that most efficient plasma maintenance are observed dynamic regime time modulations mean (temperature) The minimal values root square electric field temperature been at f/p about 3 kHz Torr −1 tube radius R = 1 cm. ionization rate density reached maximal under these conditions. numerical solution kinetic equation allowed accounting effects associated with temporal EEDF. Using electrons as an independent variable, we solved anisotropic tensor diffusion phase space. clarified role different flux components during space surfaces constant total energy. shown theory uncovers more exciting rich physics than classical ambipolar (Schottky) model. Non-monotonic radial distributions excitation rates, metastable densities, our pR > 6 predicted off-axis peak has never experiments so far. hope results stimulate further experimental studies AC column. analysis could help uncover new even such well-known object noble gases.