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Description
Exploding films have potential applications as fast opening switches, current interrupters, and in the ignition of explosive materials. The exploding film phenomenon is a process in which a high voltage capacitive discharge is passed through a thin layer of metal particles on the surface of a dielectric film. Heat generated from the increase in current forces the aluminum particles from a solid state to a liquid state during an initial strike. While in this liquid state, a rise in current can initiate a restrike, causing a flashover event. In this work, an aluminum metallized polypropylene film (MPPF) is subjected to a 5 kV capacitive discharge under different temperatures and pressures. A comparison of electrical characteristics including current, voltage, and time for MPPFs during restrike is presented as a precursor to applications in dynamic environmental conditions.
