Modelling of plasma aerodynamic actuation driven by nanosecond SDBD discharge

Abstract

A two-dimensional air plasma kinetics model (16 species and 44 processes) for nanosecond discharge under atmospheric pressure was developed to reveal the spatial and temporal distribution of discharge characteristics of a surface dielectric barrier discharge (SDBD) actuator. An energy transfer model, including two channels for energy release from external power source to gas, was developed to couple plasma with hydrodynamics directly in the same dimension. The governing equations included the Poisson equation for the electric potential, continuity equations for each species, electron energy equations for electrons taking part in reactions, and Navier–Stokes equations for non-isothermal fluid. The model was validated through current–voltage profile and electron temperature obtained from experiments.