Generation of Uniform Discharge by Dielectric Barrier Discharge Device in Atmospheric-pressure Air

We found that the generation of a uniform discharge in atmospheric-pressure air was possible in the frequency range from 32 Hz to 1.1 kHz using alumina as a barrier material of the DBD (Dielectric Barrier Discharge) device. We also found that there is a voltage domain for the generation of the uniform discharge. The domain becomes wider with the increase of the frequency. If the applied voltage is slightly higher than the upper limit voltage of stable generation of a uniform discharge, the uniform discharge changes to a nonuniform FD (Filamentary Discharge). In order to clarify the mechanism of generation of the uniform discharge, we investigated how the barrier materials change the discharge mode by both photographic observation and analysis of electric circuit phenomena. We also carried out experiments with a DBD device, using a combination barrier of soda glass and alumina. In this case, the uniform discharge and the FD appeared alternately in every half cycle. As a result, it was found that a uniform discharge was generated when the alumina barrier was used and it acted as a cathode. From analysis of the gap voltage and the current, it was also found that the uniform discharge was an APTD (Atmospheric Pressure Townsend Discharge) characterized by electron avalanche. This paper presents the experimental results and discussions. c 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 180(4): 1-9, (C) 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej. 21253