Predictive modeling of oscillating plasma energy release for clean combustion engines

Abstract

Abstract The oscillating plasma ignition system shows promise to ignite lean and diluted mixtures. The plasma discharge provides large ignition volume and prompt control of the energy releasing process. The electric field in high-frequency oscillation also promotes the flame kernel propagation. Corona discharge is sensitive to surrounding conditions including pressure, temperature, flow pattern, and gaseous media composition, thus bringing a major challenge in its application in engines. In this work, operational boundaries and important factors affecting successful plasma discharge are discussed. Subsequently, an electrical circuit model is proposed to predict the dynamics of the plasma discharge for managing energy release of the ignition system. With the secondary voltage for the plasma antenna as the model input, the estimation of the secondary current can be predicted with reasonable accuracy using an impedance model. The electrical energy derived using the proposed model provides a guideline for the possible optimization and control of the plasma ignition system.