Nonelectrode and Postbreakdown Ionization Processes in Water

Space charges that determine spatial distribution and magnitude of local electric fields play an important role in different fields of science. Here, we show the results of optical and electro-optical studies of nonelectrode and postbreakdown ionization processes in near-electrode space charge layers inside water. The nonelectrode streamers develop in the form of cathode and anode semistreamers initiated at the same point. Postbreakdown streamers are registered near the main breakdown channel. The second type of postbreakdown streamers is initiated at the cathode. Both streamers are spread through the nearly whole negative space charge region.