Development of a Vlasov Equation Based Numerical Model of Multipactor Discharge

Abstract

Multipactor discharge is a resonant phenomenon that can be initiated in vacuum under RF excitation, giving rise to charge growth over time. The electron dynamics under such collisionless conditions has been researched by kinetic Monte Carlo and magnetohydrodynamic models in the past. As an alternative, we develop and present studies of a Vlasov equation based numerical model to calculate multipactor susceptibility in common microwave structures [1]. In contrast to kinetic models, utilization of the Vlasov equation permits the continuous treatment of the electron distribution in phase space, thereby capturing all statistical outcomes in a single calculation. To address the computational demand of the Vlasov equation, parallel computing techniques are utilized.