Enthalpy modulation of a laminar pulsed nitrogen arc jet: time-resolved diagnostics and model

In most studies, plasma spraying of liquid feedstock for ceramic coating elaboration requires limiting the arc motion to obtain stable plasma and to favour homogeneous treatment of nanomaterials. In this chapter, an alternative approach is proposed and consists of using a pulsed arc jet modulating the specific enthalpy in time. The momentum and heat transfers can be controlled provided a synchronous injection of materials is associated with it. The rotational temperatures of the nitrogen arc jet are measured by means of time-resolved optical emission spectroscopy synchronized with the arc voltage. The enthalpy modulation ratio (hmax/hmin) is shown to be close to 2.68. A simplified model of the dynamics of heat transfers is used to interpret diagnostics and highlights a time delay between arc voltage and enthalpy at the nozzle exit due to the characteristic time of heat transfers and residence time of plasma.