Particle-in-cell simulation of pseudospark switch based on particle-in-cell plus Monte-Carlo collision method

The initial discharge process of pseudospark switch has been simulated via a electrostatic particle-in-cell plus Monte-Carlo collision method. The pseudospark discharge process mainly consists of Townsend process, plasma formation, hollow cathode effect and main discharge induced by field emission. The plasma formation and hollow cathode effect are critical for the conduction. Then the parameters, i.e. gas pressure, electrode borehole diameter, anode voltage and initial particle density, were varied and their effect on the forming time of electron peak current of the pseudospark switch was investigated. The results show that as the parameters increase, the forming time of electron peak current lessens.