A space-charge region model for microscopic steady coronas from points

Abstract

A mathematical model for microscopic point-to-plane coronas in the steady-state regime has been developed and current-potential relations have been derived from the model. The potential and electric field distributions for the region outside of the corona glow are also predicted. The model is applicable for both gaseous and liquid media. Hyperboloid geometry is assumed for the point and a constant mobility model is asumed for the transport of the charge carriers. The derived relation for the functional dependence of the corona current on point potential is shown to be in agreement with experimental data in helium. Empirical values for some of the parameters of the equations are presented for microscopic coronas in gaseous helium.