What is it about?
We studied how rapid electric sparks controlled by magnetic fields induce flows in the air. Using special cameras, we saw that the spark makes hot clusters of charged particles and an intense shock wave. By controlling air or heat, the findings could help improve aircraft performance, clean surfaces, or melt ice.
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Photo by MARIOLA GROBELSKA on Unsplash
Why is it important?
Our study fully characterizes the flow patterns induced by nanosecond pulsed surface arc discharge in a magnetic field, revealing the flow and thermal evolution of plasma clusters and blast waves. This is timely, as arc discharges are essential in aerospace, sterilization, and de-icing. The results show that clusters are composed of charged particles deflected by the magnetic field, and the flow structure and thermal evolution are transformed accordingly. The research can provide new insights to improve the efficiency of related applications.
Perspectives
Working on this study was a thrilling journey into the dynamic world of plasma and magnetic fields. As someone fascinated by how fundamental physics can solve real-world problems, I found it exciting to uncover the intricate flow structures produced by these rapid electric sparks. This project deepened my appreciation for interdisciplinary science, aerodynamics, plasma physics, and engineering. I hope readers are inspired by how such small-scale phenomena can lead to significant technological advancements like higher-performance aircraft or cleaner surfaces, sparking curiosity about the hidden forces shaping our world.
Dr. Zhikun Sun
Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Evolution and composition of flow structures generated by nanosecond pulsed surface arc discharge in a magnetic field, Physics of Fluids, September 2022, American Institute of Physics,
DOI: 10.1063/5.0121376.
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