Flow Control and Thermal Management Using Dielectric Glow Discharge Concepts

Abstract

The glow discharge creates a thermal plasma far from thermodynamic equilibrium, and can be fruitfully employed for active flow control and thermal management. In the present study, we investigate a capacitively coupled radio frequency discharge plasma generator, where the plasma is generated on the surface of a dielectric circuit board with electrode strips on the top and bottom. A recently developed phenomenological modeling approach is employed to probe force generation as well as aerodynamics and heat transfer characteristics. Qualitative and quantitative evaluations are made based on available experimental measurements to highlight the performance of this device concept and physical implications. Consistent and noticeable increases in lift, drag and heat transfer rates are observed while varying the Reynolds number and angle of attack, indicating that there is substantial potential of applying this concept to manage and control fluid flow and thermal environments. © 2003 by Authors. Published by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc.