Simultaneous measurement of electrical potential on both sides of the dielectric surface in a parallel-plate dielectric barrier discharges and analysis of net electric field

Abstract Dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs) are widely used for ozone generation and surface treatment owing to their ability to generate reactive species. Surface charges generated during discharges distort the electric field between the dielectrics and affect the generation of reactive species. Therefore, the net electric field variations are of significant interest. Herein, a DBD measurement system for the net electric field based on the Pockels effect is established for the first time. The proposed system can simultaneously measure the surface potentials on both sides of the dielectric, thereby obtaining the net electric field at the discharge gap. The net electric field distribution varies insignificantly with the magnitude of the applied voltage but significantly with gap length. Moreover, the breakdown electric field increases with a decreasing gap length. This study provides a physical explanation for microgap reactors, demonstrating that the electric field in a DBD can be manipulated.