On multiple complex structure formations in expanding hollow cathode discharge

A hollow cathode source is designed to generate multiple double layer (MDL) structures by the trapping of charged particles in the absence of any auxiliary plasma source or magnetic field, while the glow discharge switches between two distinctly different stable regimes. The generation and dynamics of localised and intensely luminous MDL formations are experimentally investigated in low-frequency sheath oscillation inhibited glow discharge by modified Langmuir probes in a linear vacuum vessel. The localised complex structures grow axially into visibly glowing coaxial formations along with structural changes in MDL formations, on increasing the applied voltage in nitrogen plasma at 0.1 mbar pressure. The discharge gradually expands to fill up the entire vessel through redistribution of energetic charged particles and formation of multiple sheaths on increasing the applied voltage across the electrodes. The present experimental study reveals interesting information about the formation of the sheath, stability of the plasma sheath and charged particle dynamics during the discharge transformations. The paper relates the plasma parameter variations with the nonlinear time series analysis of the discharge current and floating potential fluctuations through the reconstructed phase space in different discharge domains to analyse the dynamics of MDL formations and harmonic generation through sheath oscillations during the hollow cathode discharge regimes. The radial motion of the charged particles during the glow discharge between the semi-transparent gridded cylindrical cathode and the central anode might be useful for a better understanding of the underlying basic sheath physics related to particle acceleration in plasma as well as application in plasma sputtering.

Automated summary

A hollow cathode source is used to generate multiple double layer (MDL) structures in the absence of auxiliary plasma source or magnetic field. Localised and intensely luminous MDL formations are investigated in low-frequency sheath oscillation inhibited glow discharge by modified Langmuir probes. The study reveals information about sheath formation, plasma stability, and charged particle dynamics during discharge transformations.