A fluid model for colloidal plasmas under microgravity conditions

Abstract

A numerical model is presented to simulate steady states of complex ('dusty') plasmas under microgravity conditions. The model uses a fluid description for the plasma as well as for the dust microparticles. This is achieved by using an appropriate equation of state for the crystalline phase of the dust. The only forces assumed to act on the dust particles are the electric force, ion drag and pressure gradients. The model is used to study the formation of the stable 'void' present in recent microgravity experiments. The structure of the dust clouds when the void is present is examined and explained.