Center for Pulsed Power and Power Electronics.
TTU Home College of Engineering P3E Home Faculty

Dr. Hermann G. Krompholz

Contact Information

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX 79409-3102

Phone: (806)742-3468
Fax: (806)742-1281
Hermann.Krompholz@ttu.edu

Education

Research Interests

Other Interests

Projects

Awards and Professional Societies

Publications


Journal

Publication Year:  2008
+ Effects of UV Illumination on Surface Flashover under Pulsed Excitation
  J. T. Krile, A. A. Neuber, H. G. Krompholz, "Effects of UV Illumination on Surface Flashover under Pulsed Excitation", to appear in IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science (2008)
Abstract:  Undesirable surface flashover of high voltage support structures can severely limit the compactness of open air high voltage systems. Only recently, increased effort has been invested in characterizing and quantifying the physical processes involved in surface flashover occurring under atmospheric conditions and under the influence of UV illumination. In this paper, a UV flash lamp and a solid-state UV source, with its much faster turn-off time, were utilized in conjunction with a high temporal resolution testing apparatus. The UV pulse, excitation voltage, discharge current, and flashover self-luminosity were measured with high temporal precision. We relate recent experiments to our experimental findings of surface flashover under atmospheric conditions gained over the past five years. A simple model that describes the observed behavior will be presented. In addition, a more advanced Monte Carlo-type code for electron collision dynamics will be utilized to further analyze the role of UV in surface flashover under atmospheric conditions.

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+ Seed Electron Production from O- Ions under High Power Microwave Excitation
  G. F. Edmiston, A. A. Neuber, H. G. Krompholz, J. T. Krile, "Seed Electron Production from O- Ions under High Power Microwave Excitation", J. Appl. Phys. 103, 063303 (2008)
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  2007
+ Contributing Factors to Window Flashover Under Pulsed High Power Microwave Excitation at High Altitude
  G. Edmiston, A. Neuber, L. McQuage, J. Krile, H. Krompholz, J. Dickens, "Contributing Factors to Window Flashover Under Pulsed High Power Microwave Excitation at High Altitude", IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation 14, pp. 783-789 (2007)
Abstract:  One of the major limiting factors for the transmission of high power microwave (HPM) radiation is the interface between dielectric-vacuum or even more severely between dielectric-air if HPM is to be radiated into the atmosphere. Surface flashover phenomena which occur at these transitions severely limit the power levels which can be transmitted. It is of major technological importance to predict surface flashover events for a given window geometry, material and power level. When considering an aircraft based high power microwave platform, the effects on flashover formation due to variances in the operational environment corresponding to altitudes from sea level to 50,000 feet (760 to 90 Torr; 1 Torr=133.3 Pa) are of primary interest. The test setup is carefully designed to study the influence of each atmospheric variable without the influence of high field enhancement or electron injecting metallic electrodes. Experimental data of flashover delay times across different materials, such as polycarbonate, Teflonreg, and high density polyethylene as a function of background pressure and gas type, air, N2, argon are discussed. An empirical relationship between flashover field amplitude and delay time is given.

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+ Dielectric Surface Flashover at Atmospheric Conditions with Unipolar Pulsed Voltage Excitation
  Morales, K.; Krile, J.; Neuber, A.; Krompholz, H.; IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation, [see also IEEE Transactions on Electrical Insulation], Volume 14, Issue 4, Aug. 2007 Page(s):774 - 782
Abstract:  Not Available

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+ IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation
  G. Edmiston, A. Neuber, L. McQuage, J. Krile, H. Krompholz, J. Dickens, IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation, Volume: 14 , Issue: 4, Page(s): 783 - 789
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Interface Breakdown During High-Power Microwave Transmission
  Neuber, A. A.; Edmiston, G. F.; Krile, J. T.; Krompholz, H.; Dickens, J. C.; Kristiansen, M.; IEEE Transactions on Magnetics, Volume 43, Issue 1, Part 2, Jan. 2007 Page(s):496
Abstract:  The major limiting factor in the transmission of narrowband high-power microwaves (HPM) has been the interface between vacuum-vacuum or even more severely between vacuum-air if HPM are to be radiated into the atmosphere. Extensive studies have identified the physical mechanisms associated with vacuum/dielectric flashover, as opposed to the mechanisms associated with dielectric/air flashover, which are not as well known. Due to the high electron collision frequencies (in the terahertz range) with the background gas molecules, established mitigation methods and concepts of vacuum/dielectric flashover will have to be re-evaluated. The primarily limiting factors of HPM transmission through a dielectric/air interface are presented based on recent experiments at 2.85 GHz. The physics of the involved mechanisms and their practical ramifications are discussed. The potential of surface roughness/geometry for flashover mitigation is addressed as

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+ Pulsed Dielectric Surface Flashover in an SF6 Environment
  J. T. Krile, R. Vela, A. A. Neuber, and H. G. Krompholz, "Pulsed Dielectric Surface Flashover in an SF6 Environment", IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science 35, pp. 1580-1587 (2007)
Abstract:  A recently upgraded laser-triggered gas switch at Sandia National Laboratories has developed a failure mode that results in the breakdown spark tracking to the inside of the containment envelope. These breakdowns along the surface, or surface flashovers, degrade the performance of the overall switch, causing the switch to prefire in the successive shot. In the following, experimental results of pulsed surface flashover across different dielectric materials in SF6, primarily at atmospheric pressure, as well as flashover and volume breakdown in at pressures from 1.3 to 365.4 kPa are presented. In addition to fast voltage and current monitoring of the breakdown event, an increased emphasis was put on imaging the event as well as gathering optical emission spectra (~200-700 nm) from it. As much as possible, the small-scale experiments were designed to reproduce, at least partly, the conditions as they are found in the large 5-MV switch. An effort was made to determine what changes could be made to reduce the occurrence of surface flashovers, in addition to some broadly applicable conclusions on surface flashovers in an SF6 environment.

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+ Spectral Analysis of Pulsed Volume Breakdown in SF6 at High Pressures
  Krile, J. T.; Vela, R.; Neuber, A. A.; Krompholz, H. G.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 35, Issue 4, Part 3, Aug. 2007 Page(s):1163 - 1169
Abstract:  The Z-machine, which is located at Sandia National Laboratories, is currently undergoing refurbishment to increase the output drive current. Due to increased switching voltage requirements, some switch failure modes have been identified with the laser-triggered gas switch design, including envelope surface flashover. In order to improve the performance and lifetime of these switches, a basic understanding of the underlying physics of the failure mechanisms is required. A small-scale experimental setup has been constructed to approximate conditions within the switch. The possible impact of the $hbox{SF}_{6}$ volume spark between the switch electrodes on the envelope surface flashover is investigated. Measured optical spectra of the $ hbox{SF}_{6}$ volume spark over a wide pressure range, from rough vacuum to 40 psig overpressure, are analyzed regarding their potential to contribute to switch failure

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Publication Year:  2006
+ Conduction and breakdown mechanismsin transformer oil
  Butcher, M.; Neuber, A.A.; Cevallos, M.D.; Dickens, J.C.; Krompholz, H.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 34, Issue 2, Part 3, April 2006 Page(s):467 - 475
Abstract:  With a fast coaxial test setup using high speed electrical and optical diagnostics, prebreakdown current pulses and shadowgraphy images are measured for direct current (dc) breakdown in Univolt 61 transformer oil. Also, dc currents across the gap are measured using a high sensitivity electrometer. The conduction and breakdown mechanisms in transformer oil as function of applied hydrostatic pressures are quantified. Together, this information provides data on the development of current flow in the system. We have identified three stages in the conduction process prior to breakdown for highly nonuniform fields. Stage 1 is characterized by a resistive current at low fields. Increasing the applied electric field lowers the effective barrier at the metal/dielectric interface allowing a "tunneling" mechanism to begin, leading to the rapid rise in the injection current observed in stage 2. In stage 3, at high fields, the current reaches space charge saturation with an apparent mobility of 3/spl middot/10/sup -3/ cm/sup 2//V/spl middot/s prior to breakdown. The processes of final breakdown show a distinct polarity dependence. A strong pressure dependence of the breakdown voltage is recorded for negative needle/plane breakdown; a 50% reduction in breakdown voltage is observed when the hydrostatic pressure is lowered from atmospheric pressure to hundreds of mtorr. Positive needle discharges show a reduction of only about 10% in breakdown voltage for the reduced pressure case. Weak pressure dependence indicates the breakdown mechanism does not have a strong gaseous component. We will discuss possible links between conduction current and dc breakdown.

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+ High-Power Microwave Surface Flashover of a Gas-Dielectric Interface at 90-760 torr
  Edmiston, G.; Krile, J.; Neuber, A.; Dickens, J.; Krompholz, H.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 34, Issue 5, Part 1, Oct. 2006 Page(s):1782 - 1788
Abstract:  The major limiting factor in the transmission of high-power microwave (HPM) has been the interface between dielectric–vacuum or, even more severely, between dielectric–air, if HPM is to be radiated into the atmosphere. Extensive studies have identified the physical mechanisms associated with vacuum–dielectric flashover, as opposed to the mechanisms associated with air–dielectric flashover, which are not as well known. Surface-flashover tests involving high field enhancement due to the presence of a triple point have shown that volume breakdown threshold (dielectric removed) is approximately 50% higher than the flashover threshold with a dielectric interface over the 90–760 torr range. In order to quantify the role of field enhancement in the flashover process independent of electron injection from metallic surfaces, the effects of the triple point are minimized by carefully choosing the geometry, and in some cases, the triple point is “removed” from the flashover location. Experimental results were presented, including the impact of gas pressure and the presence of UV illumination, along with temperature analysis of the developing discharge plasma and temporally resolved images of the flashover formation. These results are compared with literature data for volume breakdown in air, with discussion on the similarities and differences between the data.

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+ Monte Carlo simulation of HPM window breakdown at atmospheric conditions
  John T. Krile, Andreas A. Neuber, Hermann G. Krompholz, and Thomas L. Gibson, Monte Carlo simulation of HPM window breakdown at atmospheric conditions. Applied Physics Letters vol. 89, 201501 (2006).
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Phenomenology of subnanosecond gas discharges at pressures below one atmosphere
  Krompholz, H.G.; Hatfield, L.L.; Neuber, A.A.; Kohl, K.P.; Chaparro, J.E.; Han-Yong Ryu; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 34, Issue 3, Part 3, June 2006 Page(s):927 -
Abstract:  Volume breakdown and surface flashover in quasi-homogeneous applied fields in 10/sup -5/ to 600 torr argon and dry air are investigated, using voltage pulses with 150 ps risetime, <1ns duration, and up to 150 kV amplitude into a matched load. The test system consists of a transmission line, a transition to a biconical section, and a test gap, with gap distances of about 1mm. The arrangement on the other side of the gap is symmetrical. Diagnostics include fast capacitive voltage dividers, for determination of voltage waveforms in the gap, and conduction current waveforms through the gap. X-ray diagnostics use a scintillator-photomultiplier combination with different absorber foils yielding coarse spectral resolution. Optical diagnostics include use of a streak camera to get information on the discharge channel geometry and dynamics, and temporally resolved measurements with photomultipliers. Breakdown delay times are on the order of 100-400 ps, with minima occurring in the range of several 10torr. X-ray emission extends to pressures >100 torr, indicating the role of runaway electrons during breakdown. Maximum X-ray emission coincides with shortest breakdown delay times at several 10 torr. Simple modeling using the average force equation and cross sections for momentum transfer and ionization supports the experimental results

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+ Pulsed dielectric surface flashover in nitrogen at atmospheric conditions
  Morales, K.P.; Krile, J.T.; Neuber, A.A.; Krompholz, H.G.; IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation, Volume 13, Issue 4, Aug. 2006 Page(s):803 - 809
Abstract:  Dielectric flashover along insulators in vacuum has been comprehensively researched in the past. Less studied, but of similar importance, is surface flashover at atmospheric pressures and the impact of an atypical electrode geometry, humidity, and ultraviolet (UV) illumination. Previous research has shown distinct discharge behavior in air and nitrogen environments for an electrode geometry in which the applied electric field lines curve above the dielectric surface. It was concluded that the discharge development path, whether along the electric field lines or the surface of the dielectric, is related to the oxygen content in the atmospheric background. It is believed that this dependence is due to the discharge’s production of UV radiation in an oxygen rich environment. Thus, experiments were conducted in a nitrogen environment employing UV surface illumination in order to observe the affects on the flashover spark behavior. From the experimental data, it can be ascertained that UV illumination and intensity play a significant role in the discharge development path. Based on these results an explanation of the physical mechanisms primarily involved in unipolar surface flashover will be presented. Additional experiments regarding the effects of humidity on the discharge behavior will be discussed as well.

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+ Similarities Of Dielectric Surface Flashover at Atmospheric Conditions for Pulsed Unipolar and RF Excitation
  J. Krile, G. Edmiston, K. Morales, A. Neuber, H. Krompholz, and M. Kristiansen, Similarities Of Dielectric Surface Flashover at Atmospheric Conditions for Pulsed Unipolar and RF Excitation, Laser Physics in Special Issue "Plasma, Beams, and Lasers" Dedicated to Professor Gennady A. Mesyats on his 70th Birth Anniversary, vol. 16, pp. 194-201, 2006.
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  2005
+ DC and Pulsed Dielectric Surface Flashover at Atmospheric Pressure
  Krile, J.T.; Neuber, A.A.; Dickens, J.C.; Krompholz, H.G.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 33, Issue 4, Part 1, Aug. 2005 Page(s):1149 - 1154
Abstract:  In a wide variety of high-voltage applications surface flashover plays a major role in the system's performance and yet has not been studied in great detail for atmospheric conditions with modern diagnostic tools. Environmental conditions to be considered include pressure, humidity, and gas present in the volume surrounding the dielectric. In order to gain knowledge into the underlying process involved in dielectric surface flashover, a setup has been created to produce and closely monitor the flashover event. Surface flashover for both direct current and pulsed voltages is considered. Within the setup, parameters such as geometry, material, and temporal characteristics of the applied voltage can be altered. Current, voltage, and luminosity are measured with nanosecond to sub-nanosecond resolution. Previously measured optical emission spectra is also discussed.

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+ Imaging of dielectric surface flashover in atmospheric conditions
  Krile, J.; Neuber, A.; Dickens, J.; Krompholz, H.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 33, Issue 2, Part 1, Apr 2005 Page(s):270 - 271
Abstract:  Using a gated intensified digital charge coupled device (ICCD) camera, the development of flashovers across a dielectric surface has been imaged in various gasses at atmospheric pressures. The arc displayed a strong tendency to develop close to the surface, as opposed to following the electric field line leading away from the surface, when oxygen is present in the environment. These findings along with spectroscopy data help to yield a better understanding of the processes involved in surface flashover.

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+ Imaging of negative polarity dc breakdown streamer expansion in transformer oil due to variations in background pressure
  Cevallos, M.D.; Butcher, M.; Dickens, J.; Neuber, A.; Krompholz, H.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 33, Issue 2, Part 1, April 2005 Page(s):494 - 495
Abstract:  The breakdown physics of transformer oil is investigated using high speed electrical and optical diagnostics. Experiments are done in self-breakdown mode utilizing a needle/plane geometry. Shadowgraphy combined with high-speed electrical diagnostics are aimed at measuring streamer expansion as a function of external pressure. Assuming a breakdown mechanism for negative needle based on bubble formation with subsequent carrier amplification in the gas phase implies a pressure dependence, which is observed in the experiments, i.e. the expansion velocity decreases with increasing pressure.

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+ Microbubble-based model analysis of liquid breakdown initiation by a submicrosecond pulse
  J. Qian, R. P. Joshi, J. Kolb, and K. H. Schoenbach, J. Dickens, A. Neuber, M. Butcher, M. Cevallos, and H. Krompholz, E. Schamiloglu and J. Gaudet, "Microbubble-based model analysis of liquid breakdown initiation by a submicrosecond pulse," J. Appl. Phys. 97, 113304, 2005.
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  2004
+ DC flashover of a dielectric surface in atmospheric conditions
  Krile, J.T.; Neuber, A.A.; Dickens, J.C.; Krompholz, H.G.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 32, Issue 5, Part 1, Oct. 2004 Page(s):1828 - 1834
Abstract:  Surface flashover is a major consideration in a wide variety of high-voltage applications, and yet has not been studied in great detail for atmospheric conditions, with modern diagnostic tools. Environmental conditions to be considered include pressure, humidity, and gas present in the volume surrounding the dielectric. In order to gain knowledge into the underlying process involved in dielectric surface flashover, a setup has been created to produce and closely monitor the flashover event. Within the setup parameters such as geometry, material, and temporal characteristics of the applied voltage can be altered. Current, voltage, luminosity, and optical emission spectra are measured with nanosecond to subnanosecond resolution. Spatially and temporally resolved light emission data is also gathered along the arc channel. Our fast imaging data show a distinct trend for the spark in air to closely follow the surface even if an electrical field with a strong normal component is present. This tendency is lacking in the presence of gases such as nitrogen, where the spark follows more closely the electric field lines and develops away from the surface. Further, the breakdown voltage in all measured gases decreases with increasing humidity, in some cases as much as 50% with an increase from 10% relative humidity to 90% relative humidity.

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+ Research issues in developing compact pulsed power for high peak power applications on mobile platforms
  Gaudet, J.A.; Barker, R.J.; Buchenauer, C.J.; Christodoulou, C.; Dickens, J.; Gundersen, M.A.; Joshi, R.P.; Krompholz, H.G.; Kolb, J.F.; Kuthi, A.; Laroussi, M.; Neuber, A.; Nunnally, W.; Schamiloglu, E.; Schoenbach, K.H.; Tyo, J.S.; Vidmar, R.J.; Proceedings of the IEEE on Pulsed Power, Volume 92, Issue 7, July 2004 Page(s):1144 - 1165
Abstract:  Pulsed power is a technology that is suited to drive electrical loads requiring very large power pulses in short bursts (high-peak power). Certain applications require technology that can be deployed in small spaces under stressful environments, e.g., on a ship, vehicle, or aircraft. In 2001, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) launched a long-range (five-year) Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative (MURI) to study fundamental issues for compact pulsed power. This research program is endeavoring to: 1) introduce new materials for use in pulsed power systems; 2) examine alternative topologies for compact pulse generation; 3) study pulsed power switches, including pseudospark switches; and 4) investigate the basic physics related to the generation of pulsed power, such as the behavior of liquid dielectrics under intense electric field conditions. Furthermore, the integration of all of these building blocks is impacted by system architecture (how things are put together). This paper reviews the advances put forth to date by the researchers in this program and will assess the potential impact for future development of compact pulsed power systems

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Publication Year:  2002
+ Field enhanced microwave breakdown in a plasma limiter
  Mankowski, J.J.; Hemmert, D.; Neuber, A.; Krompholz, H.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 30, Issue 1, Part 1, Feb. 2002 Page(s):102 - 103
Abstract:  A new type of plasma limiter is being developed which can turn on in less than 1 ns. The approach taken is to initiate streamer breakdown via a micron radius needle tip. Images were taken of the gap region in argon at several pressures in order to investigate the role of the tip region

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+ Gas breakdown in the subnanosecond regime with voltages below 15 kV
  Krompholz, H.; Hatfield, L.L.; Kristiansen, M.; Hemmert, D.; Short, B.; Mankowski, J.; Brown, M.D.J.; Altgilbers, L.L.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 30, Issue 5, Part 1, Oct. 2002 Page(s):1916 - 1921
Abstract:  Gaseous breakdown in the subnanosecond regime is of interest for fast pulsed power switching, short pulse electromagnetics, and for plasma limiters to protect electronic devices from high power microwave radiation. Previous investigations of subnanosecond breakdown were mainly limited to high-pressure gases or liquids, with voltages in excess of 100 kV. In this paper, we investigate subnanosecond breakdown at applied voltages below 7.5 kV in point-plane geometries in argon, with a needle radius <0.5 /spl mu/m. The coaxial setup allows current and voltage measurements with temporal resolutions down to 80 ps. Voltages of 7.5 kV (which are doubled at the open gap before breakdown) produce breakdowns with a delay of about 1 ns. With negative pulses applied to the tip and the same amplitude, breakdown is always observed during the rising part of the pulse, with breakdown delay times below 800 ps, at pressures between 10/sup 2/ and 10/sup 4/ Pa. At lower pressure, a longer delay time (8 ns at 6 Pa) is observed. We expect the breakdown mechanism to be dominated by electron field emission, but still influenced by gaseous amplification.

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Publication Year:  2000
+ Dielectric/Gas Interface Breakdown Caused by High Power Microwaves
  D. Hemmert, A. Neuber, H. Krompholz, L.L Hatfield, and M. Kristiansen: Dielectric/Gas Interface Breakdown Caused by High Power Microwaves. Proceedings of the 13th International Conference on High-Power Particle Beams, June 25-30, 2000, Nagaoka, Japan, invited.
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Microwave magnetic field effects on high-power microwave window breakdown
  Hemmert, D.; Neuber, A.A.; Dickens, J.; Krompholz, H.; Hatfield, L.L.; Kristiansen, M.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 28, Issue 3, June 2000 Page(s):472 - 477
Abstract:  Microwave window breakdown in vacuum is investigated for an idealized geometry, where a dielectric slab is located in the center of a rectangular waveguide with its normal parallel to the microwave direction of propagation. An S-band resonant ring with a frequency of 2.85 GHz and a power of 60 MW is used. With field enhancement tips at the edges of the dielectric slab, the threshold power for breakdown is observed to be dependent on the direction of the microwaves; i.e., it is approximately 20% higher for the downstream side of the slab than it is for the upstream side. Simple trajectory calculations of secondary electrons in an RF field show a significant forward motion of electrons parallel to the direction of microwave propagation. Electrons participating in a saturated secondary avalanche on the upstream side are driven into the surface, and electrons on the downstream side are driven off the surface, because of the influence of the microwave magnetic field. In agreement with the standard model of dielectric surface flashover for dc conditions (saturated avalanche and electron-induced outgassing), the corresponding change in the surface charge density is expected to be proportional to the applied breakdown threshold electric field parallel to the surface

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+ Optical diagnostics on helical flux compression generators
  Neuber, A.A.; Dickens, J.C.; Krompholz, H.; Schmidt, M.F.C.; Baird, J.; Worsey, P.N.; Kristiansen, M.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 28, Issue 5, Oct. 2000 Page(s):1445 - 1450
Abstract:  Explosively driven magnetic flux compression (MFC) has been object of research for more than three decades. Actual interest in the basic physical picture of flux compression has been heightened by a newly started Department of Defense (DoD) Multi-University Research Initiative. The emphasis is on helical flux compression generators comprising a hollow cylindrical metal liner filled with high explosives and at least one helical coil surrounding the liner. After the application of a seed current, magnetic flux is trapped and high current is generated by moving, i.e., expanding, the liner explosively along the winding of the helical coil. Several key factors involved in the temporal development can be addresses by optical diagnostics. 1) The uniformity of liner expansion is captured by framing camera photography and supplemented by laser illuminated high spatial and temporal resolution imaging. Also, X-ray flash photography is insensitive to possible image blur by shockwaves coming from the exploding liner. 2) The thermodynamic state of the shocked gas is assessed by spatially and temporally resolved emission spectroscopy. 3) The moving liner-coil contact point is a possible source of high electric losses and is preferentially monitored also by emission spectroscopy. Since optical access to the region between liner and coil is not always guaranteed, optical fibers can he used to extract light from the generator. The information so gained will give, together with detailed electrical diagnostics, more insight in the physical loss mechanisms involved in MFC

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+ The role of outgassing in surface flashover under vacuum
  Neuber, A.A.; Butcher, M.; Krompholz, H.; Hatfield, L.L.; Kristiansen, M.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 28, Issue 5, Oct. 2000 Page(s):1593 - 1598
Abstract:  Results of high-speed electrical and optical diagnostics are used as a basis to discuss a new surface flashover model. Outgassing, caused by electron stimulated desorption, is found to play a crucial role in the temporal flashover development. Dielectric unipolar surface flashover under vacuum is experimentally characterized by a three-phase development, which covers a current range from 10-4 A to 100 A. Phase one comprises a fast (several nanoseconds) buildup of a saturated secondary electron avalanche reaching current levels of 10 to 100 mA. Phase two is associated with a slow current amplification reaching currents in the Ampere level within typically 100 ns. The final phase is characterized by a fast current rise up to the impedance-limited current on the order of 100 A. The development during phase two and three is described by a zero-dimensional model, where electron-induced outgassing leads to a Townsend-like gas discharge above the surface. This is supported by time-resolved spectroscopy that reveals the existence of excited atomic hydrogen and ionic carbon before the final phase. The feedback mechanism toward a self-sustained discharge is due to space charge leading to an enhanced field emission from the cathode. A priori unknown model parameters, such as outgassing rate and gas density buildup above the surface, are determined by fitting calculated results to experimental data. The significance of outgassing is also discussed with a view to microwave surface flashover

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Publication Year:  1999
+ Dielectric surface flashover in vacuum at 100 K
  Neuber, A.; Butcher, M.; Hatfield, L.L.; Kristiansen, M.; Krompholz, H.; IEEE Transactions on Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation, [see also IEEE Transactions on Electrical Insulation], Volume 6, Issue 4, Aug. 1999 Page(s):512 - 515
Abstract:  Cryogenic components in high power electrical systems and in power electronics gain more and more importance. The behavior of insulators for cryogenic conditions, however, is virtually unknown. In a fast coaxial setup, dielectric test sample and electrodes in vacuum are cooled to <100 K and flashover is characterized using fast electrical and optical diagnostics. Three consecutive development stages for flashover in self-breakdown mode with a gap distance of 0.5 cm can be distinguished: (1) a fast current rise to mA amplitudes within ~2 ns, probably associated with field emission, followed by, (2) a slow current rise to ~5 to 10 A amplitude with duration of 40 ns to 1 µs, associated with secondary emission avalanche saturation, and (3) a transition to a rapid gaseous ionization above the sample caused by electron induced outgassing, leading to impedance-limited current amplitudes of ⩽300 A. Phase (1) shows a higher final current at lower temperature, which is probably due to a higher initial velocity of the secondary electrons, the duration of phase (2) is a decreasing function of breakdown voltage and only slightly dependent on temperature, which points to a weak temperature dependence of the outgassing process. Flashover potentials show a slight increase at lower temperature

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+ Electric Current in DC Surface Flashover in Vacuum
  A. Neuber, M. Butcher, L. L. Hatfield, and H. Krompholz: Electric Current in DC Surface Flashover in Vacuum. J. Appl. Phys., vol. 15, 3084-3091 (1999)
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Imaging of high-power microwave-induced surface flashover
  Neuber, A.; Hemmert, D.; Dickens, J.; Krompholz, H.; Hatfield, L.L.; Kristiansen, M.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 27, Issue 1, Feb. 1999 Page(s):138 - 139
Abstract:  Using two gated intensified digital charge-coupled device cameras, one sensitive in the near infrared to ultraviolet region and one in the soft X-ray region, the temporal development of high-power microwave-induced surface flashover across a vacuum/dielectric interface has been imaged. The emission of X-ray radiation from the interface is caused by field emitted electrons accelerated in the high electromagnetic field impacting the solid. This generation of bremsstrahlung terminates at the moment of full flashover development that is indicated by the optical light emission. A rising plasma density above the dielectric surface due to electron induced outgassing triggers this behavior

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+ Initiation of High Power Microwave Dielectric Interface Breakdown
  A. Neuber, D. Hemmert, H. Krompholz, L. Hatfield, and M. Kristiansen: Initiation of High Power Microwave Dielectric Interface Breakdown. J. Appl. Phys., vol. 86, 1724-1728 (1999).
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  1998
+ Window breakdown caused by high-power microwaves
  Neuber, A.; Dickens, J.; Hemmert, D.; Krompholz, H.; Hatfield, L.L.; Kristiansen, M.; IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, Volume 26, Issue 3, June 1998 Page(s):296 -
Abstract:  Physical mechanisms leading to microwave breakdown on windows are investigated for power levels on the order of 100 MW at 2.85 GHz. The test stand uses a 3-MW magnetron coupled to an S-band traveling wave resonator. Various configurations of dielectric windows are investigated. In a standard pillbox geometry with a pressure of less than 10-6 Pa, surface discharges on an alumina window and multipactor-like discharges starting at the waveguide edges occur simultaneously. To clarify physical mechanisms, window breakdown with purely tangential electrical microwave fields is investigated for special geometries. Diagnostics include the measurement of incident/reflected power, measurement of local microwave fields, discharge luminosity, and X-ray emission. All quantities are recorded with 0.21-ns resolution. In addition, a framing camera with gating times of 5 ns is used. The breakdown processes for the case with a purely tangential electric field is similar to DC flashover across insulators, and similar methods to increase the flashover field are expected to be applicable

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Publication Year:  1997
+ Dielectric Surface Flashover in a Simulated Low Earth Orbit Environment
  F. Hegeler, H. Krompholz, L.L. Hatfield, M. Kristiansen, “Dielectric Surface Flashover in a Simulated Low Earth Orbit Environment”, IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, 25 (1997) 300
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  1994
+ Plasma Development in the Early Phase of Dielectric Surface Flashover
  G. Masten, T. Mueller, F. Hegeler, H. Krompholz, "Plasma Development in the Early Phase of Dielectric Surface Flashover", IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, 22 (1994) 1034
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  1993
+ Current, Luminosity, and X-ray Emission in the Early Phase of Dielectric Surface Flashover in Vacuum
  F. Hegeler, G. Masten, H. Krompholz, and L.L Hatfield, "Current, Luminosity, and X-ray Emission in the Early Phase of Dielectric Surface Flashover in Vacuum", IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, 21 (1993) 223
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  1992
+ Magnetic field effects on vacuum insulator flashover
  M. Lehr, R. Korzekwa, H. Krompholz, M. Kristiansen, "Magnetic field effects on vacuum insulator flashover", J. Appl. Phys. 71 (1992) 389
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  1991
+ Expansion of Hydrogen Arcs Driven by Oscillating Currents
  T.G. Engel, M. Kristiansen, H. Krompholz, "Expansion of Hydrogen Arcs Driven by Oscillating Currents", IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science 19 (1991) 959
Abstract:  Not Available
+ The Design and Calibration of a Very Fast Current Probe for Short Pulse Measurements
  S. Calico, M. Crawford, M. Kristiansen, H. Krompholz, "The Design and Calibration of a Very Fast Current Probe for Short Pulse Measurements", Rev. Sci. Instrum 62 (1991) 1511
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  1990
+ The Influence of Magnetic Fields on Dielectric Surface Flashover
  R. Korzekwa, M. Lehr, H. Krompholz, M. Kristiansen, "The Influence of Magnetic Fields on Dielectric Surface Flashover", IEEE Transactions on Electron Devices, 38 (1990) 745
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  1989
+ Inhibiting Surface Flashover for Space Conditions Using Magnetic Fields
  R. Korzekwa, M. Lehr, H. Krompholz, M. Kristiansen, "Inhibiting Surface Flashover for Space Conditions Using Magnetic Fields", IEEE Trans. on Plasma Science, 17 (1989) 612
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Methods of Increasing the Surface Flashover Potential in Vacuum
  L.L. Hatfield, E.R. Boerwinkle, G. Leiker, H. Krompholz, R. Korzekwa, M. Lehr, M. Kristiansen, "Methods of Increasing the Surface Flashover Potential in Vacuum", IEEE Trans. on Electrical Insulation, 24 (1989) 985
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  1988
+ Current-Voltage Characteristics of a High Current Pulsed Discharge in Air
  H. Akiyama, M. Kristiansen, H. Krompholz, B. Maas, "Current-Voltage Characteristics of a High Current Pulsed Discharge in Air", IEEE Trans. on Plasma Science 16 (1988) 312
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  1985
+ A New Design Concept for Field Distortion Trigger Spark Gaps
  . Schaefer, B. Pashaie, P. Williams, K. Schoenbach, H. Krompholz, "A New Design Concept for Field Distortion Trigger Spark Gaps", J. Appl. Phys. 57 (1985) 2507
Abstract:  Not Available
+ An Electron Beam Controlled Diffuse Discharge Switch
  K. Schoenbach, G. Schaefer, M. Kristiansen, H. Krompholz, H. Harjes, D. Skaggs, "An Electron Beam Controlled Diffuse Discharge Switch", J. Appl. Phys. 57 (1985) 1618
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  1984
+ Electron Beam Tetrode for Multiple, Submicrosecond Pulse Operation
  H. Harjes, K. Schoenbach, G. Schaefer, M. Kristiansen, H. Krompholz, D. Skaggs, "Electron Beam Tetrode for Multiple, Submicrosecond Pulse Operation", Rev. Sci. Instrum. 55 (1984) 1684
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Investigations of E-Beam Controlled Diffuse Discharges
  K. Schoenbach, G. Schaefer, M. Kristiansen, H. Krompholz, H. Harjes, D. Skaggs, "Investigations of E-Beam Controlled Diffuse Discharges" in "Gaseous Dielectrics IV", ed. L. G. Christophorou, Pergamon Press 1984, p. 246
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Nanosecond Current Probe for High Voltage Experiments
  H. Krompholz, J. Doggett, K. Schoenbach, J. Gahl, C. Harjes, G. Schaefer, M. Kristiansen, "Nanosecond Current Probe for High Voltage Experiments", Rev. Sci. Instrum. 55 (1984) 127
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Pulsed Hollow-Cathode Discharge with Nanosecond Risetime
  G. Schaefer, P. Husoy, K. Schoenbach, H. Krompholz, "Pulsed Hollow-Cathode Discharge with Nanosecond Risetime", IEEE Trans. Plasma Sci., vol. PS-12 (1984) 271
Abstract:  Not Available
+ The Use of Attachers in Electron-Beam Sustained Discharge Switches - Theoretical Considerations
  G. Schaefer, K. Schoenbach, H. Krompholz, M. Kristiansen, A.H. Guenther, "The Use of Attachers in Electron-Beam Sustained Discharge Switches - Theoretical Considerations", Laser and Particle Beams 2 (1984) 273
Abstract:  Not Available

Conference Paper/Presentation

Publication Year:  2007
+ Dielectric Surface Flashover at Atmospheric Conditions under High Power Microwave Excitation
  A. Neuber, J. T. Krile, G. F. Edmiston, H. G. Krompholz, "Dielectric Surface Flashover at Atmospheric Conditions under High Power Microwave Excitation", Phys. Plasmas 14, 057102 (2007) (invited).
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Effects of UV Illumination on Surface Flashover under Pulsed Unipolar Excitation
  J. T. Krile, A. A. Neuber, H. G. Krompholz, "Effects of UV Illumination on Surface Flashover under Pulsed Unipolar Excitation," presented at the 2007 IEEE Pulsed Power and Plasma Science Conference, Albuquerque, NM June 17-22, 2007 (invited).
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Experimental investigation of subnanosecond gas breakdown in the E/p range 10^3 to 10^5 V/cm torr
  H. Krompholz, L. Hatfield, A. Neuber, P, J. Chaparro, and W. Justis, “Experimental investigation of subnanosecond gas breakdown in the E/p range 103 to 105 V/cm torr,” in Proceedings of the 28th ICPIG, July 15-20, 2007, Prague, Czech Republic, pp. 1014-1017.
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Initiation of HPM Surface Flashover
  G. F. Edmiston, A. A. Neuber, J. T. Krile, L. M. McQuage, H. Krompholz, "Initiation of HPM Surface Flashover," presented at the 2007 IEEE Pulsed Power and Plasma Science Conference, Albuquerque, NM June 17-22, 2007.
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Pulsed Volume and Surface Discharges in an SF6 Environment
  R. Vela, J. T. Krile, A. A. Neuber, H. G. Krompholz, "Pulsed Volume and Surface Discharges in an SF6 Environment," presented at the 2007 IEEE Pulsed Power and Plasma Science Conference, Albuquerque, NM June 17-22, 2007.
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Scaling Laws for Sub-Nanosecond Breakdown in Gases with Pressures below One Atmosphere
  W. H. Justis, J. E. Chaparro, H. G. Krompholz, L. L. Hatfield, A. A. Neuber, "Scaling Laws for Sub-Nanosecond Breakdown in Gases with Pressures below One Atmosphere," presented at the 2007 IEEE Pulsed Power and Plasma Science Conference, Albuquerque, NM June 17-22, 2007.
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Seed Electron Model for Monte Carlo HPM Breakdown Model
  A. Neuber, G. Edmiston1, H. Krompholz, “Seed Electron Model for Monte Carlo HPM Breakdown Model,” in Proceedings of the 28th ICPIG, July 15-20, 2007, Prague, Czech Republic, pp. 1042-1045.
Abstract:  Not Available
+ X-Ray Emission from Sub-Nanosecond Gas Breakdown
  J. E. Chaparro, W. H. Justis, H. G. Krompholz, L. L. Hatfield, A. A. Neuber, "X-Ray Emission from Sub-Nanosecond Gas Breakdown," Proceedings of the 2007 IEEE Pulsed Power and Plasma Science Conference, pp. 1652-1655, Albuquerque, NM June 17-22, 2007.
Abstract:  Not Available
Publication Year:  2006
+ Contributing Factors to Window Flashover Under Pulsed High Power Microwave Excitation at High Altitude
  Edmiston, G.; Neuber, A.; Krile, J.; McQuage, L.; Krompholz, H.; Dickens, J.; 2006 Power Modulator Symposium, Conference Record of the 2006 Twenty-Seventh International May 2006 Page(s):389 - 392
Abstract:  One of the major limiting factors for the transmission of high power microwave (HPM) radiation is the interface between dielectric-vacuum, or even more severely, between dielectric-air if HPM is to be radiated into the atmosphere. Surface flashover phenomena which occur at these transitions severely limit the power levels which can be transmitted. It is of major technical importance to predict surface flashover events for a given window geometry, material and power level. When considering an aircraft based high power microwave platform, the effects on flashover formation due to variances in the operational environment corresponding to altitudes from sea level to 50,000 feet (760 Torr to 90 Torr) are of primary interest. The test setup is carefully designed to study the influence of each atmospheric variable without the influence of high field enhancement or electron injecting metallic electrodes.

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+ Dielectric Surface Flashover Research at Texas Tech University
  A. Neuber, H. Krompholz, J. Dickens, M. Kristiansen, “Dielectric Surface Flashover Research at Texas Tech University,” presented at the 1st Euro-Asian Pulsed Power Conference, Sept. 18 -22, 2006, Chengdu, China.
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Interface Breakdown During High Power Microwave Transmission
  A. Neuber, J. Krile, G. Edmiston, H. Krompholz, J. Dickens, M. Kristiansen ,“Interface Breakdown During High Power Microwave Transmission,” presented at the 13th EML Symposium, May 22-25, 2006, Berlin, Germany.
Abstract:  Not Available
+ Pulsed Unipolar Surface Flashover at Atmospheric Conditions
  Morales, K.; Krile, J.; Neuber, A.; Krompholz, H.; Dickens, J.; Power Modulator Symposium, 2006. Conference Record of the 2006 Twenty-Seventh International 14-18 May 2006 Page(s):174 - 180
Abstract:  Dielectric surface flashover along insulators in vacuum has been comprehensively researched over the years. However, the primary mechanisms involved in dielectric flashover at atmospheric pressures have yet to be as extensively analyzed with variable parameters such as electrode geometry, background gas, humidity, and temporal characteristics of the applied voltage. Understanding the fundamental physical mechanisms involved in surface flashover at atmospheric pressures is vital to characterizing and modeling the arc behavior. Previous DC and unipolar excitation experiments have shown distinct arc behavior in air and nitrogen environments for an electrode geometry that produces electric field lines that curve above the dielectric surface. Specifically, flashover arcs in an air environment were observed to develop along the dielectric surface. Experiments conducted in nitrogen revealed that the arc developed along the electric field lines, above the surface of the dielectric. It was also of importance to alter the temporal characteristics of the applied voltage to simulate lightning situations and investigate the impact on the arc behavior and voltage delay times. A solid state high voltage pulser with an adjustable pulse width of ~500 ns at FWHM and amplitudes in excess of 30 kV was specifically developed to replicate the temporal characteristics of a voltage pulse observed when a building structure is hit by a lightning strike. Based on these results, the physical mechanisms primarily involved in pulsed unipolar surface flashover will be discussed. Additional studies regarding the effects of humidity and surface roughness on the flashover arc behavior will also be presented

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