An Evaluation of Nonlinear Resistors for Pulse Power Switching
Abstract
Inductive storage power supplies are capable of providing high pulse power with relatively low weight, except that the energy transfer to a load circuit in such a system requires the opening of the initial current storage circuit. The switch required for this has to be able to interrupt a substantial current, as well as permit a rapid build-up of a high voltage across its opened terminals. Conventional switches that rely on the separation of two connecting members develop extremely high localized fields during opening. These can ionize gas molecules or create a plasma from dislodged and ionized electrode material. In a plasma, the current carriers have to be removed or neutralized before its resistance goes up, and the time required to do this limits the rate of voltage build up or recovery. The resistivity of a solid on the other hand can be modulated by changes in effective carrier mobility as well as by the carrier concentration.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA636186
Entities
People
- Michaël Kahn
- R. Ford
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory