Two-dimensional simulation of streamers using the FE-FCT algorithm

The improved finite-element flux-corrected transport method (FE-FCT), devel oped by the authors, has been applied in its full two-dimensional form to t he numerical solution of streamer development and propagation in air at atm ospheric pressure. The numerical algorithm used employs the FE-FCT method f or the solution of transport equations of charged species under the action of space-charge electric field, with the field obtained from the solution o f Poisson's equation in cylindrical co-ordinates. Results of two-dimensiona l simulations of cylindrically symmetric streamers in air between parallel plate electrodes are presented. The breakdown voltages predicted by the mod el for different gap lengths are in agreement with the experimental measure ments, which demonstrates the validity of the model. Furthermore, the avala nche-to-streamer transition-as described in Raether H 1964 Electron avalanc hes and breakdown in gases (London: Butterworths)-and the formation of anod e and cathode directed streamers are numerically observed.