Two-dimensional simulation of the positive streamer in N₂between parallel-plate electrodes

We report results of a two-dimensional simulation (three-dimensional, cylindrically symmetric) of positive streamer propagation in atmospheric pressure nitrogen between parallel-plate electrodes. The streamer is initiated at the anode. The most important features of the streamer dynamics are (i) high radial field around the streamer head (about 100 kV cm -1 ) which leads to significant expansion of the head in the radial direction and (ii) the formation of a secondary wave which propagates along the streamer channel towards the cathode and increases channel conductivity.