Electrostatic probe theories and measurements in flame plasmas

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Abstract
The application of probe theories to flame plasmas is examined. For low-pressure laminar flames with small double spherical probes, the electric Reynolds number is less than unity and the theory of Su and Lam is often applicable. The effect upon plasma potential of drawing current to the probes is examined experimentally and it is shown that under certain conditions there is a significant shift of plasma potential. The effects of this upon measured values of ion concentration and electron temperature are discussed and a correction procedure proposed. The effects upon the measured value of electron temperature of the probe being cooled below the gas temperature are examined theoretically.