Observation of Surface Discharge Phenomena on Dielectric Films Under Low Pressure Using Pockels Effect

Abstract

Dynamic two-dimensional discharge patterns on various polymeric materials under atmospheric and low pressures are carried out using a newly developed measurement system based on Pockels effect. Spacecraft in space environment are exposed to high energy particles and radio-active rays. When the high energy particles impinge onto the surfaces of spacecraft polymeric materials they are charged, bringing sometimes to surface discharges that often can cause serious accidents. Since many accidents due to such irradiation effects are reportedther is a need to investigate deeper the discharging effects on the surface of polymeric materials under low pressure.