Single-shot Thomson scattering on argon plasmas created by the Microwave Plasma Torch; evidence for a new plasma class

摘要: Abstract To determine the fine-structure size of plasmas created by a Microwave Plasma Torch (MPT), single-shot Thomson scattering (TS) measurements were performed. The aim was to find solution for long-standing discrepancy between experiments and Global Models (GPMs). Since these GPMs are based on assumption that (ambipolar) diffusion is main loss process charged particles, length thus should be known with high precision before an appropriate theory-experiment comparison can carried out. In order avoid effect blurring, which during accumulation multi-shot TS signals obscures fine-structures, indispensable length. results present study reveal impression MPT resemble stable cones not (always) correct; instead it found we investigated tiny filaments rotate mantle virtual cone. However, fine-structure, especially thickness, substantially smaller than By applying filament disagreement even worse what It therefore inevitable conclude proposition GPM incorrect. Apparently plasma diffusive in nature; is, particles provided but local chemistry. Swirling cool nitrogen-containing environment favors production molecular ions such as Ar2+ N2+ inside filament. destruction leads recombination frequencies more factor 100 larger ambipolar provide. Thus dealing another class useful divide into reactive plasmas. well-known ICP belongs first class; second.