An investigation of micron diameter exposed-electrode single barrier dielectric barrier discharges

Summary form only given. Dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs) show promise for reducing flow separation on airfoils thereby increasing the efficiency of turbine stages and aircraft. These devices are only beginning to be understood. Several authors have explored the effect DBD geometry has on induced force in ambient air conditions. Hoskinson et. al. found that for cylindrical exposed electrodes, as the electrode diameter was reduced below 50 μm, the force efficiency (induced force divided power dissipated) increased dramatically. We investigate this regime in further detail. Exposed electrode diameters of 13 μm, 25 μm, 50 μm, and 140 μm were tested. Induced forces in ambient air were measured using a stagnation probe. Images of the DBD were also taken when active with a high speed ICCD camera to help characterize the plasma discharge. The results are presented here for the first time. This is part of a larger investigation to experimentally probe the plasma physics of DBDs and observe how they relate to reduced flow separation from airfoils. Properly understanding the physics will aid in increasing the applications of DBD technology.