Plasma parameter bi-stability in e-beam sustained discharge in Xe

The phenomenon of plasma parameter bi-stability in an e-beam sustained discharge in Xe has been theoretically studied using a numerical solution of an appropriate Boltzmann equation (BE) for the electron energy distribution function (EEDF) by taking into account electron–electron collisions. The EEDF and electron concentration are calculated self-consistently depending on the production rate of secondary electrons (q) and reduced electric field strength (E/N). Calculations show that ranges of q and E/N exist, where the BE has two different stable solutions. Relevant plasma parameters (effective electron temperature, electron drift velocity, electron current density) are also calculated under bi-stability conditions.