Determination and assessment of a complete and self-consistent electron-neutral collision cross-section set for the C4F7N molecule

The perfluoronitrile C4F7N is considered a promising SF6-alternative in high-voltage gas-insulated apparatus, thanks to its high dielectric strength and low global warming potential. However, a complete and consistent set of electron-neutral collision cross-sections of C4F7N is still lacking, which hinders relevant plasma modeling. In this contribution, the available electron-neutral collision cross-sections of C4F7N are first compiled and assessed. The initial cross-sections are adjusted iteratively by the electron swarm method to determine a complete and self-consistent cross-section set of C4F7N for the first time. The set is validated by a systematic comparison of electron swarm parameters between Boltzmann equation analysis and experimental measurements in pure C4F7N as well as C4F7N/N-2 and C4F7N/Ar mixtures. The proposed cross-section set of C4F7N will be made available to the community in the LXCat database. It will be of particular importance for applications with an emphasis on the discharge mechanisms of this novel gas.

Automated summary

C4F7N is a promising SF6-alternative for high-voltage gas-insulated apparatus due to its high dielectric strength and low global warming potential. However, the lack of complete and consistent electron-neutral collision cross-sections for C4F7N hinders plasma modeling. In this study, available electron-neutral collision cross-sections of C4F7N are compiled and adjusted iteratively to determine a complete and self-consistent set for the first time. The proposed cross-section set is validated by comparing electron swarm parameters between Boltzmann equation analysis and experimental measurements. This cross-section set will be made available in the LXCat database and is of particular importance for studying the discharge mechanisms of C4F7N.