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Time resolved determination of the electron energy distribution function in a DC pulsed plasma

We present an experimental device and a numerical procedure which allows the time-resolved sampling and analysis of electrical I - V probe characteristics in a low frequency DC pulsed plasma used for iron nitriding. Plasma parameters such as electron density and energy and plasma potential are deduced from the experimental determination of the electron energy distribution function f(E). The use of the second derivative technique allows us to follow the time variation of the electron population in the early afterglow. The non-Maxwellian form of f(E) in the afterglow is explained in terms of kinetic processes leading to vibrationally excited states of molecular nitrogen which are involved in the plasma reactivity. Particular study of the real duration of the afterglow shows that the charged species remain in the gas phase up to 14 ms after the discharge is cut off. These results, combined with the study of f(E) in the afterglow, lead us to establish time ranges for the discharge and post-discharge durations which appear favourable for the nitriding process.