Studies on the self- and laser-initiated discharge characteristics at dielectric/gas interfaces

Two main issues are discussed: (i) the study of arc initiation and propagation in a compressed nitrogen gas spark-gap, initiated by a low-energy (90 μJ) pulsed N₂ laser (600 ps FWHM) and (ii) the modification of the discharge characteristics due to the presence of a solid insulating space made of Plexiglas (PMMA). The studies are carried out over a pressure range of 0.1 to 0.4 MPa, and for space diameters of 1, 4 and 6 cm, in a planar uniform field gap with 1-cm spacing. Coordinated measurements of discharge current and luminosity with nanosecond response times provide data on discharge current and luminosity risetimes, delay times to the onset of discharge from the instant of laser initiation, and the threshold (minimum) voltage for the onset of discharge due to laser initiation. The results point to some basic processes involving the interaction of the insular surface with : (a) the electron avalanches in the formative stage, and (b) the streamer in the discharge growth phase leading to full conduction. The results demonstrate that the insulator surface impedes the development of both the avalanche and streamer phases of the discharge development