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Introduction to Nonequilibrium Plasma Modeling

Plasma modeling includes the description of phenomena such as the kinetics of charged and neutral species, mass transport, electromagnetic fields, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics. In this 6-part self-paced course, you will get an introduction to modeling plasma, with a focus on modeling nonequilibrium plasma, using the COMSOL Multiphysics^® software and the Plasma Module. This includes learning about the fundamentals of modeling plasma, best modeling practices, the underlying equations used for the plasma physics interfaces and physics feature nodes, and the various specialized capabilities and features in the Plasma Module. We also discuss the possibilities and limitations of plasma modeling using the software. In addition, you will see various demonstrations of how to create simulations of different types of plasma applications.

Note: This course is meant for users that are familiar with COMSOL Multiphysics. If you are new to using the software we strongly recommend completing the introductory tutorial series for new users or attending a live, introductory training course before starting this Learning Center course. Additionally, some familiarity with the basic concepts of plasma physics is advantageous.

The Select Physics window showing the interfaces for modeling plasma.
The Select Physics window with the Plasma branch of physics interfaces expanded. The options displayed are those available for modeling in 3D.

An overview of the topics covered throughout the course are as follows:

Part 1: Introduction to Nonequilibrium Discharges and Plasma Modeling

• Introduction to nonequilibrium discharges
• Plasma Module validity and capabilities
• Introduction to the Plasma interface
  • Drift Diffusion interface
  • Heavy Species Transport interface
  • Plasma chemistry
  • Electrostatics interface

Part 2: Using the Plasma Interface

• Overview of the Plasma interface settings
  • Diffusion Model options
  • Transport Settings options
  • Plasma Properties settings
• Demo: Simulating DC glow discharge
• Further information on the Plasma interface
  • Finite volume formulation
  • Debugging plasma models
  • Stabilization

Part 3: Debugging Plasma Models and Using the Plasma, Time Periodic Interface

• Debugging plasma models
  • Demo: Resolving common error and warning messages
• Introduction to the Plasma, Time Periodic interface and relevant study types
• Demo: Computing plasma impedance
• Further information on the Plasma, Time Periodic interface
  • General tips on when to use the Plasma interface versus the Plasma, Time Periodic interface
  • Handling complex plasma chemistries

Part 4: Modeling Inductively Coupled Plasma and Microwave Plasma

• Introduction to the Inductively Coupled Plasma interface
• Demo: Modeling a GEC ICP reactor
• Introduction to the Microwave Plasma interface
• Demo: Simulating microwave plasma
• Further information on the Microwave Plasma interface
  • Resonance zone smoothing using the Doppler broadening parameter option
  • Port boundary condition properties
  • Additional resources for further learning

Part 5: Understanding the Electron Energy Distribution Function and Boltzmann Equation, Two-Term Approximation

• Introduction to the electron energy distribution function (EEDF)
  • Review the different options and possibilities for describing the distribution function
  • Comparing the different options
• Introduction to the Boltzmann Equation, Two-Term Approximation interface
  • How to use the interface
  • Further settings required upon use of the interface
  • Relevant study types
• Demo: Performing an argon Boltzmann analysis
• Space-dependent EEDF modeling and why using an EEDF Initialization study for this is necessary

Part 6: Modeling Plasma with CFD and Heat Transfer

• Coupling plasma with fluid flow and heat transfer
• Relevant settings in the Plasma interface
  • Thermodynamic properties
  • Species properties
  • Accounting for convection
• Demo: Setting up a thermal plasma model
• Electric discharges
  • Introduction to the Corona Discharge interface
  • Introduction to the Electrical Breakdown Detection interface
• Ion energy distribution function (IEDF) and particle tracing

After completing this course, you will be knowledgeable in the relevant theory for plasma modeling and have a complete understanding of what the Plasma interface, as well as other interfaces, in COMSOL Multiphysics can be used for. You will also be aware of the various specialized features for plasma modeling, study types for analyses of plasma systems, and the additional resources available for learning more beyond the scope of this course.

Please note that the videos featured in this course were taken from a previous recording; because of this, some slides feature a daily agenda that is not relevant to this course.