Numerical calculations of spatio-temporal characteristics of the homogeneous barrier discharge in helium are performed by means of a one-dimensional fluid model. This model consists of the continuity equations for electrons, ions and excited atoms, with the current conservation equation and the electric field profile; the time evolution of the discharge current, gas voltage and the surface density of charged particles on the dielectric barrier were calculated. The simulation results showed that the peak values of the discharge current, gas voltage and electric field in the first half period are asymmetric to the second half. When the current reaches its positive or negative maximum, the electric field profile and the electron and ion densities represent similar properties to the typical glow discharge at low pressures.

Key words: Atmospheric pressure glow discharge, numerical simulation, helium gas.