Spatial profiles of N2 concentration in an atmospheric pressure nitrogen glow discharge

Spatial profiles of N2 concentration are measured in an atmospheric pressure nitrogen glow discharge by cavity ring-down spectroscopy. At discharge currents of ∼100 mA, we measure centreline ion concentrations on the order of 1012 cm−3, and radial profiles with radial-half-maximum of ∼1 mm. The measurements have sub-ppm concentration sensitivity, and sub-millimetre spatial resolution. Using a collisional–radiative model we relate the ion concentrations to electron number densities, and we find good agreement with spatially integrated electrical measurements. The measured concentrations indicate significant nonequilibrium in the discharges.