Simulation Software for Strongly Coupled Plasmas

ABSTRACT: We propose to develop and validate a strongly-coupled non-equilibrium plasma simulation model. Strongly coupled plasmas occur in a wide range of physical situations impacting a wide range of research and development areas connected to Air Force technology. The simulation model proposed here is based on the particle-in-cell (PIC) methodology, which has recently been validated by the proposal authors against a well-established equilibrium model of two-component, two-temperature strongly-coupled classical plasma. Non-equilibrium coupled plasmas are associated with a number of Air Force high technology developments, including the background operating environment for space-based assets, electrical energy conversion into high power electromagnetic signals, and quantum information systems such as trapped ion and cold atom systems. Schemes for including charge-particle interactions including atomic physics processes will be evaluated and implemented in the code. Modifications of the basic simulation model to include some quantum mechanical effects will also be evaluated. Once validated, the model will be used to characterize the impact of strongly coupled plasmas in high-power electromagnetic fields for counter-directed energy, explosive blast situations, and space-weather effects on electronics. BENEFIT: The new modeling capability will assist the Air Force in efforts to characterize the impact of strongly coupled plasma in high-power electromagnetic fields for counter-directed energy, explosive blast situations, and space-weather effects on electronics. The new modeling capability offers the commercial prospects of a novel chemistry based on micro-plasma technology for environmental remediation, and for quantum information systems based on trapped ions for secure business transactions. Both of these applications have long term potential for new domestic business development.