Determination of the electrical parameters of a bi-dimensional d.c. Glidarc

Gliding arc discharges are the subject of renewed interest in applications to a variety of chemical reactions. A gliding arc creates a weakly ionized gas `string' between two horn-shaped electrodes. The reacting gas introduced at the electrode base blows the arc string upwards. These devices can be applied in industry mainly for decontamination and general gas treatment. We propose a simple model to describe the electrical properties of a bi-dimensional d.c. gliding arc discharge. This model can be used to estimate characteristics of the power source (internal resistance r and voltage ) necessary for a particular application.