Study on the interaction and evolution of surface dielectric barrier discharge channels

The dynamic evolution characteristics of the discharge channel are a key factor influencing the plasma distribution of surface dielectric barrier discharge (SDBD). In this paper, a novel oblique dual-tip SDBD actuator structure is proposed to investigate the multi-stage development mechanism of discharge channels. Experimental results demonstrate that when the oblique angle between the two tips ranges from 30° to 90°, strong mutual repulsion occurs between the discharge channels, with the repulsion intensity increasing as the voltage amplitude increases. When the tip angle is 120°, the dynamic evolution of the discharge channel exhibits three distinct stages. In the initial stage, localized ionization occurs near the leading edge of each tip, forming two independent discharge channels. Then the channels merge and extend along a specific direction, creating a single dominant filament. The current between the two tip electrodes was measured, demonstrating the existence of connected discharge channels. In the final stage, the front of the channel develops multistage bifurcation. The study of the three stages of discharge channel development contributes to exploring the mechanisms of mutual exclusion and fusion between discharge channels. These findings provide a theoretical basis for optimizing the structural design and application of SDBD actuators in related fields.