Generation of a low-frequency induction discharge of atmospheric pressure

This paper describes the generation of an induction discharge of atmospheric pressure with ferromagnetic enhancement of magnetic coupling between an inductor and a discharge. It is shown that intensifying a magnetic flux that connects the inductor and the plasma makes it possible to efficiently generate an electrodeless discharge in a low-frequency (10–100 kHz) range and greatly simplifies the use of the inductively coupled plasma. This study also presents new experimental data on the dependence of the electric field strength and the thermal efficiency of a low-frequency induction discharge of atmospheric pressure on the discharge current strength and the flow rate of a plasma-forming gas (argon or air). It is shown how the criterion for generating a low-frequency induction discharge is related to its thermal efficiency is shown, and methods for reducing the heat losses of a low-frequency induction discharge of atmospheric pressure are analyzed.