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

Abstract The perfluoronitrile C 4 F 7 N is considered a promising SF 6 -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 C 4 F 7 N is still lacking, which hinders relevant plasma modeling. In this contribution, the available electron-neutral collision cross-sections of C 4 F 7 N 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 C 4 F 7 N 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 C 4 F 7 N as well as C 4 F 7 N/N 2 and C 4 F 7 N/Ar mixtures. The proposed cross-section set of C 4 F 7 N 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.