Molecular dynamics simulation of cathode crater formation in the cathode spot of vacuum arcs

Abstract A three-dimensional model based on molecular dynamics has been developed to describe the formation of a single cathode spot in vacuum arcs. The is assumed be controlled by plasma ions, effect which simulated LAMMPS through process ion bombardment. represented structured copper atoms, while ions are continuously injected into domain with certain velocity towards surface. Ion bombardment leads appearance crater, caused accumulation pressure against relaxation substrate temperature. size crater found determined spatial distribution ions. also scrutinised electron emission from surface variable temperature during development process. In addition, evaporated atoms forming metal vapour observed. This study provides description at microscale, shall helpful further studies arc rooting and contact (electrode) erosion environment.