On the increase in the limiting current of an atmospheric-pressure glow discharge in an argon flow

The initiation of an atmospheric-pressure glow discharge (APGD) is studied in the multitip cathode-planar anode electrode system through which an argon flow passes. It is shown that sectioning of the cathode and ballast resistances present at corona tips make it possible to substantially expand the current region of the discharge and considerably raise the limiting current of the APGD. The shape of the coronafree electrode is found to influence the limiting discharge current.