Surface analysis of traces stained with discharge on plane electrode in atmospheric pressure negative corona

The surface deposits of the traces stained with discharges on the brass plate electrode in atmospheric pressure DC negative corona have been analyzed. The surface analysis showed that the major deposits on the traces originate from nitrogen oxide ions NOx− and neutrals NOx, or carbon clusters Cn. The relationship between the plane positions and resulting deposits obtained with the point-to-plane electrodes with arbitrary needle angle to the plane provided the information about the general behavior of negative ions NOx− and neutral species NOx occurring in stationary inhomogeneous electric fields.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► NOx–, NOx and Cn formed in negative corona discharges are stained on plane electrode. ► Stained trace pattern shows the behavior of chemicals in a given electrode geometry. ► The NOx– ions can move along the field line arising from the needle tip apex. ► The motion of neutral species NOx directs toward the needle tip axis.