Abstract
We present observations of X-rays from laboratory sparks created in the air at atmospheric pressure by applying an impulse voltage with long (250 µs) rise-time. X-ray production in 35 and 46 cm gaps for three different electrode configurations was studied. The results demonstrate, for the first time, the production of X-rays in gaps subjected to switching impulses. The low rate of rise of the voltage in switching impulses does not significantly reduce the production of X-rays. Additionally, the timing of the X-ray occurrence suggests the possibility that the mechanism of X-ray production by sparks is related to the collision of streamers of opposite polarity.
Highlights
In 2001, Moore et al [1] recorded energetic radiation pulses in excess of 1 MeV, associated with approaching stepped-leaders in natural cloud-to-ground negative lightning strikes
We present results of an independent experiment demonstrating that decimeter-scale sparks in air gaps stressed by switching impulse voltages do produce X-rays
All the X-rays always appeared in connection with the discharge almost at the same place, simultaneously on several detectors, except in one case where one single X-ray signal appeared (CH1) in the first measurement series at around 50 μs after the application of the impulse voltage and about 27 μs before the complete breakdown. The goal of this experiment was to study the X-ray production by laboratory sparks in gaps subjected to voltage impulses having a low rate of rise compared to previous studies of spark-generated
Summary
In 2001, Moore et al [1] recorded energetic radiation pulses in excess of 1 MeV, associated with approaching stepped-leaders in natural cloud-to-ground negative lightning strikes. X-rays with energies extending up to a few hundred keV were detected within about 1 ms prior to the first return stroke, during the stepped-leader phase of negative natural lightning strokes [4]. These works were followed by detailed studies of the properties of this energetic radiation [5,6,7]. Yoshida et al [8] successfully recorded the bursts of high energy electrons with energies in excess of 100 keV from lightning discharges during
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
