Investigation a microplasma assisted spark gap pulser

Electrical breakdown in a spark gap has been a long research interest. This paper focuses on a repetitive breakdown of the spark gap for the development of a unique pulser system. The significant characteristics of the pulser system includes high power handling capability, several hundred picoseconds pulse rise time and high pulse repetition rate (PRR). The important circuit parameters as well as insights of the discharge processes in the spark gap are studied to understand the system behavior and endeavored to develop a technology for the breakdown reliability and reproducibility at extremely high PRR of about 1 MHz. The typical breakdown voltage and current ratings of the spark gap are lower than but close to 1 kV and several amperes, respectively. A Pspice circuit simulation, in parallel, has been used to understand and analyze the high PRR and efficiency of the pulser system operation.