Emission properties of apokamp discharge at atmospheric pressure in air, argon, and helium

Abstract

Emission spectra of the plasma jet of apokamp discharge in air, helium, and argon are studied. Apokamp at atmospheric pressure is formed in the areas of strengthening of the electric field near the bends in the channel of the pulse-periodic discharge and is directed perpendicularly to the discharge channel. Apokamp consists of a bright narrow “appendage” connected with the discharge channel and with the diffuse jet emerging from the channel. It is shown that, in helium, the emission of the diffuse part of apokamp is dominated by N₂ and N₂⁺, while emission of the “appendage” display lines and bands of He, N₂, N₂⁺, O, and OH. In argon, emission spectra of the diffuse part of the plasma jets contain not only N₂ and N₂⁺, but also Ar lines. It is assumed that the surrounding air plays an important role in the formation of the diffuse part of apokamp in helium and argon.