Flow velocity measurement in high-current arcs using Doppler-shifted plasma scattering

In high-current arc discharges the plasma flow velocity distribution is believed to have a very strong spatial dependence (Barrault et al., 1974) and the well established technique of laser velocimetry is apt to behave incorrectly. The extension of the laser scattering technique, which has been mainly used in controlled thermonuclear fusion research is described. The method offers a new velocimetry technique which can offer pinpoint (1 mm 3 order) well time-resolved (10 1 ns) diagnostics of the plasma flow velocity.