A Computational Framework for Multi-Scale Simulations of Weakly Ionized Plasma

Abstract

The goal of this STTR project is to develop a unified computational framework integrating adequate physical models for simulating complex non-equilibrium plasmas. The project aims to classify possible scenarios of plasma dynamics and develop general recipes for clustering phase space into sub-domains evolving at different scales and efficiently solve the dynamics for each scale. During Phase I, we developed a methodology to apply methods of Invariant Manifolds and the Renormalization Group for reduced description of plasma kinetics and the transition from micro to macro. We have tested state-of-the-art deterministic Eulerian and Lagrangian kinetic solvers (Vlasov, Pokker-Planck, Poltzmann) , investigated new algorithms (such as adaptive mesh in velocity space) and implemented basic plasma capabilities within the Adaptive Mesh and Algorithm Refinement framework. We prepared Phase II work plan where the proposed methodology could he fully developed and implemented in the next generation software for multi-scale plasma simulations. The new capabilities would be valuable for low-pressure weakly-collisional plasma systems with stochastic electron heating and anomalous skin effect, and for high-pressure discharges with runaway electrons, e-beams, sparks and streamers.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 30, 2008
Accession Number
ADA483975

Entities

People

  • C. Wichaidit
  • R. R. Arslanbekov
  • V. F. Kovalev
  • V. I. Kolobov
  • W. N. Hitchon

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Boltzmann Equation
  • Boundary Layer
  • Charged Particles
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics
  • Computational Science
  • Differential Equations
  • Distribution Functions
  • Dynamics
  • Electric Fields
  • Electromagnetic Fields
  • Electron Density
  • Electrons
  • Gas Discharges
  • Kinetics
  • Physics
  • Simulations
  • Three Dimensional

Readers

  • Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
  • Plasma Physics / Magnetohydrodynamics
  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.

Technology Areas

  • Microelectronics
  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster