Hybrid Gas/Plasma Simulations using DSMC with the Vorpal Code

Abstract

Summary form only given. A direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method is being added to VORPAL to model dilute (large Knudsen number) gases. VORPAL is a multi-dimensional, parallel particle-in-cell (PIC) plasma simulation code that supports a variety of models for both plasma and electromagnetic fields. The addition of the DSMC capabilities will allow VORPAL to run hybrid simulations of gas/plasma mixtures using the current plasma simulation capabilities of VORPAL along with the newly added DSMC capabilities. In particular, the resulting version of VORPAL can be used in various applications, including space propulsion (plasma thrusters) and plasma manufacturing. We will present a general overview of VORPAL's current capabilities along with a more detailed discussion of the DSMC model. VORPAL's DSMC simulation model was built on the existing PIC model by adding a Monte-Carlo collision model and adding the capability to do ensemble averaging. Comparisons of VORPAL simulations with the well-established DSMC code MONACO will be presented. These will include simulations of 1D high speed Couette flow, 1D thermal Couette flow, and 2D high speed flow around a flat plate