Abstract

Changes in the spectrum of copper alloys excited with a unidirectional spark discharge in argon are noted when hydrogen is added to the system. Systematic enhancement in erosion of copper, but not of copper in brass or in Muntz metal, is observed. Argon spectra are also perturbed, with some cascades originating near the Ar I ionization limit enhanced while other, nearly isoenergetic, cascades terminating in the Ar I metastable levels are suppressed. Ar II emission is also enhanced in the presence of H₂. Both electrode surface chemistry and plasma chemistry are affected by the hydrogen addition.

Spatial and temporal evolution of argon sparks

Sivanandan S. Harilal
Appl. Opt. 43(19) 3931-3937 (2004)

Electrode Phenomena in a High Current 20-Nanosecond Spark

Heinz Fischer and C. C. Gallagher
Appl. Opt. 6(12) 2176-2178 (1967)

Self-Reversal of the Hα Hydrogen Line in the High Pressure Spark Discharge*

Heinz Fischer
J. Opt. Soc. Am. 43(5) 394-397 (1953)

Vacuum Ultraviolet Emission from High Density Spark Discharges in Argon and Helium

Lothar Michel and Heinz Fischer
Appl. Opt. 11(4) 899-906 (1972)

Short Period Investigations in Spark Discharges

D. W. Steinhaus, H. M. Crosswhite, and G. H. Dieke
J. Opt. Soc. Am. 43(4) 257-270 (1953)