Numerical simulation of a RF - RF hybrid plasma torch with argon at atmospheric pressure

Numerical simulation for a RF - RF hybrid plasma torch with argon at atmospheric pressure

1 Introduction
The conventional single frequency atmospheric pressure inductively coupled plasma (ICP) torch has been an exciting part of investigations since it was discovered. In a typical setup, a coil surrounding the plasma confinement tube is excited with a radiofrequency current, which in turn creates a strong magnetic field. The charge carriers gain energy through the magnetic field and are then able to ionize more particles. Being electrodeless, ICPs can be used to produce contamination-free plasmas with high enthalpy. As a result, it has many industrial applications, for instance in nanoparticle synthesis, spectrochemical analysis, powder spheroidization, material testing in the aerospace industries, and the fiber optics industries [1], etc. However, working with high–frequency electronics is feasible for higher plasma power coupling but not at a desirable cost.

2 Simulation Method
We use COMSOL Multiphysics® to study discharge that are sustained by induction currents. Laminar flow, heat transfer and electromagnetic fields interfaces are coupled in the numerical model. ... mehrFrequency transient runs are performed with different distances between the coils and excitation powers of the HF coil. For each variation, the minimum sustaining power, its corresponding coil current and temperature distribution are evaluated.
References
[1] Boulos M.et al. RF Inductively Coupled Plasma Torches. Handbook of Thermal Plasma. 850 - 857