This Is AuburnElectronic Theses and Dissertations

Gaseous Discharges and Their Applications as High Power Plasma Switches

Date

2008-05-15

Author

Sozer, Esin

Type of Degree

Thesis

Department

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Abstract

Today’s pulsed power technology requires compact systems for both military and civilian applications, leading to increased demand for research in compact system components. High power switches are one of the fundamental components of all pulsed power systems. Although reliable compact solid-state switches are being reported, their peak energy capabilities are still not sufficient for some high power applications. Therefore, triggered plasma switches with low maintenance and compact design requirements are one of the key research areas. This thesis is a report on gaseous discharges and breakdown processes which are the underlying phenomena in the operation of high power plasma switches and investigation of a possible triggering mechanism for a compact design.