Simulation of 2D Model of a Novel Microplasma Used for Printed Flexible Hybrid Electronics

This work presents the modeling of a novel atmospheric microplasma based on Dielectric Barrier discharge (DBD) operating at atmospheric pressure and kHz frequency used in a plasma jet printer. Plasma jet printer is a novel and unique printer developed by researchers at NASA that utilizes a plasma to deposit and sinter aerosolized nanoparticle ink on substrate [1] [2] . This is in direct contrast to conventional printing technologies such as Aerosol Jet and Inkjet printing which require some form of post processing for improved ink adhesion and conductivity. Our 2D modeling simulation is based on fluid modeling [3] using a linked set of flow, heat transfer and plasma modules. The results show that the unique geometry of microplasma creates a "nozzle" effect that facilitates the sintering of nanoparticles.