Dynamic contraction of the positive column of a self-sustained glow discharge in air flow

We study the dynamic contraction of a self-sustained glow discharge in air in a rectangular duct with convective cooling. A two dimensional numerical model of the plasma contraction was developed in a cylindrical frame. The process is described by a set of time-dependent continuity equations for the electrons, positive and negative ions; gas and vibrational temperature; and equations which account for the convective heat and plasma losses by the transverse flux. Transition from the uniform to contracted state was analyzed. It was shown that such transition experiences a hysteresis, and that the critical current of the transition increases when the gas density drops. Possible coexistence of the contracted and uniform state of the plasma in the discharge, where the current flows along the density gradient of the background gas, is discussed. (C) 2014 AIP Publishing LLC.