Plasma wind, also known as ionized wind, is a flow phenomenon formed by the collective movement of charged particles in a plasma state. Here is an elaborate account:
Generation Mechanism
Air Ionization: When a strong electric field is applied to the air, the air molecules are ionized, producing a large number of charged particles such as electrons and ions, thus forming a plasma state4.
Particle Acceleration: In the plasma, charged particles are accelerated by the electric field and gain kinetic energy. These high-energy charged particles collide with neutral gas molecules during their movement, transferring energy to the neutral molecules and causing them to move, thereby generating plasma wind4.
Characteristics
High Energy and Activity: Plasma wind contains a large number of high-energy charged particles, which makes it highly active and capable of causing chemical reactions and physical effects that are difficult to achieve under normal conditions.
Electromagnetic Properties: Due to the presence of charged particles, plasma wind has unique electromagnetic properties and can interact with electromagnetic fields. It can also generate its own magnetic field during motion.
High Conductivity: Plasma wind has high electrical conductivity. The charged particles in it can conduct electricity, enabling it to conduct electric current well in some cases.
Applications
Automobile Engines4: In the intake system of automobiles, plasma wind technology can be used. By generating plasma wind in the intake pipe, the uniformity of the fuel-air mixture can be improved, the combustion efficiency can be enhanced, emissions can be reduced, and the power output can be increased.
Electrostatic Elimination7: Plasma wind rods are typical applications in the electrostatic elimination field. They use high-voltage generators to produce high-speed positive and negative ion airflows. These airflows can neutralize the charges on the surface of objects, thus eliminating static electricity and are widely used in the electronics manufacturing, printing, packaging and other industries.
Aerospace: Plasma wind tunnels provide a pure, long-term stable high-enthalpy plasma jet, which are ideal facilities for studying the electromagnetic characteristics of hypersonic aircraft plasma sheaths. They help simulate the plasma environment around aircraft and study issues such as aerodynamics and electromagnetic signal transmission.
Welding and Cutting: Plasma arc welding and cutting technologies utilize plasma wind. The high temperature and high energy of plasma wind can melt or vaporize metal materials, enabling efficient welding and cutting operations. They are widely used in the manufacturing, construction and other industries.