Radiation Charging and Breakdown of Insulators,
Abstract
An experimental investigation of the charge produced by photo-emission from insulators in vacuo is described. It is shown that the emission from materials commonly used in spacecraft construction, such as polyimide, is well described by solid state theory but that externally applied fields modify both the emission dynamics as well as the eventual saturation charge density. The energetics of the electrical breakdown of such charged surfaces is analysed. Surface discharges can, of course, cause degradation of the quality of the insulation through erosion, puncture or formation of electrically conductive, carbonised tracks, producing concomitant reduction in electrical system performance. These processes, which result directly from chemical interaction or indirectly, thermally, are reviewed and means of minimising the effects discussed. Avenues of further investigation are outlined.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADP005706
Entities
People
- D. K. Davies