Generalized polarization force acting on dust grains in a dusty plasma

The polarization force acting on dust particles in a dusty plasma is revisited within the theoretical framework of the Tsallis statistical mechanics. The generalized nonextensive polarization force expression is derived. As application, the modifications arising in the propagation of dust-acoustic solitary waves, and dust sheath formation are analyzed. Our results should be of wide relevance to explain and interpret the sheath formation and its structure in nonequilibrium plasmas related process such as surface treatments and ion implantation. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.