Validation and Verification Methods for the Open Source Code: Zapdos

Zapdos is an open source, multi-fluid plasma code based in MOOSE (Multiphysics Object Oriented Simulation Environment). Validation and verification studies were done within three broad studies. First, temporal and spatial convergence studies were conducted by using the method of manufactured solutions (MMS), where different coupling configurations were tested. Second, Zapdos results were compared to previous simulations for a push-pull RF discharge of argon in the GEC reference cell for 1 Torr in 1D, and 1 Torr and 100 mTorr in 2D. Finally, a parametric study was done for argon at varying pressure and voltage for RF discharges at 13.56 MHz in a GEC reference cell and compared to previous experimental results for electron and metastable densities that used microwave interferometry and laser-induced fluorescence, respectively. The MMS study results resembled the expected theoretically convergence trends with electron mean energy being particular sensitive. The comparisons to previous simulations matched within reason. Current experiment validation results follow previous experimental trend, with some deviation for pressure near 100 mTorr. A possible reason for those deviations could be due to the current assumptions within Zapdos based on the fluid approximation of plasmas.