A new method for generation of synchronized capacitive sparks of low energy. Reconsideration of previously published findings

Using the spark generator of Randeberg et al., Randeberg and Eckhoff found a MIE of pre-mixed propane/air of <0.1 mJ, as opposed to the standard value 0.25 mJ. Literature studies revealed that this discrepancy was not a spark duration effect. The reason was a previously undetected subtle, but indeed significant, additional energy contribution. Therefore, the actual spark energies used by Randeberg et al. were considerably larger than the spark energies quoted by them. A main aim of the present paper is to explain the reason for this and to indicate a possible solution.