A three-dimensional electrostatic particle-in-cell methodology on unstructured Delaunay-Voronoi grids (Q1025133)

The mathematical formulation and computational implementation of a novel three-dimensional electrostatic particle in cell methodology on unstructured Delaunay-Voronoi tetrahedral grids is developed. The method allows simulation of plasmas modeled by the Vlasov-Poisson system of equations in complex domains. The method incorporates the duality of the Delaunay-Voronov duality in all aspects of the particle in cell cycle. Charge assignment and field interpolation schemes of zero and first order are formulated for \(3d\) unstuctured tetrahedral grids based on Hockney's theory of long-range constraints. The solution to the Gauss integral law is based on a finite-volume formulation that takes advantage of the Voronoi-Delaunay dual. Boundary conditions that include floating conductors are developed in 3d following the Gauss law. Algorithms for injection from boundaries, particle loading and particle motion are developed for unstructured Delauney grids. An efficient particle tracking algorithm is developed and allows the location of the particle and aids in the numerical intergration of the equations of motion. Macroscopic multi-fluid and single-fluid plasma variables are octained on modes using the Voronoi dual.