3D fluid modeling of positive streamer discharges in air with stochastic photoionization
Peer reviewed, Journal article
Accepted version
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Date
2020Metadata
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- Publikasjoner fra CRIStin - SINTEF Energi [1614]
- SINTEF Energi [1731]
Original version
10.1088/1361-6595/ab87b6Abstract
Streamer discharges are thin plasma channels that precede lightning and sparks. They usually evolve in bundles as stochastic tree-like structures and are inherently difficult to model due to their multiscale nature. In this paper, we perform a computer investigation of positive streamer discharges in air using contemporary photoionization models. We report on three-dimensional computer simulations under conditions that are available in laboratory spark-gap experiments. The solutions demonstrate a multiscale morphology consisting of streamer fluctuations, branching, and the formation of a discharge tree. Some branches are comparatively thick and noisy, while others are thin, smooth, and carry electric fields exceeding 250 kV/cm at their tips. Our results are consistent with past experiments and clarify the puzzling branching dynamics and stochastic morphology of positive streamer discharges.