Particle-in-cell/Monte Carlo simulation of filamentary barrier discharges

The plasma behavior of filamentary barrier discharges in helium is simulated using a two-dimensional (2D) particle-in-cell/Monte Carlo model. Four different phases have been suggested in terms of the development of the discharge: the Townsend phase; the space-charge dominated phase; the formation of the cathode layer, and the extinguishing phase. The spatial-temporal evolution of the particle densities, velocities of the charged particles, electric fields, and surface charges has been demonstrated. Our simulation provides insights into the underlying mechanism of the discharge and explains many dynamical behaviors of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) filaments.