Vapor-mist for lightweight high voltage space insulation systems

The purpose of this research was to assess whether the new and emerging technology of vapor-mist dielectrics would be applicable as a high voltage pulse insulation for space-borne weapons and radar. This is a very important area in which new and lightweight forms of high voltage insulation are critically needed. The research tasks addressed in this project are listed below: estimate the performance of vapor-mist under zero gravity conditions, develop rapid misting techniques, determine the electrical strength of vapor-mist at radar frequencies, examine the electrical strength of vapor-mist exposed to pulse voltages with nanosecond rise times, and examine the heat transfer and cooling properties of vapor-mist. In this report the experimental results, analyses and theoretical aspects associated with the above tasks are detailed. Also, included are some measurements of the ultraviolet absorbance properties of vapor-mist, and the results of a microscopic examination of the electrode surfaces after pulse voltage breakdown in vapor mist.