Constrained gas breakdown and discharges at the micrometer scale – MIDICODE

This research project focuses on the fundamental study of breakdown phenomena in gases at atmospheric pressure in micrometer gap systems. The prediction of gas breakdown in micro-gaps is still a wide topic to explore, since its understanding cannot be explained the classical breakdown theory. This project proposes to investigate the elementary processes involved in the present conditions, in particular the role of electron field emission via tunneling electrons. Several key parameters will be studied such as the electrode geometry, surface materials, gas, pressure, electrical excitation waveform. Advanced experiments will be conducted involving optical laser spectroscopy techniques. The main outcome of this project will support to refine understanding of breakdown in micro-gaps and will unveil substantial fundamental knowledge to explain the deviation of breakdown prediction derived from the scaling Paschen’s law.