The propagation of positive streamers in air and at air/insulator surfaces
N.L. Allen · AIP conference proceedings · 1996
The propagation of streamers in air, and the precision with which their properties can be measured, are discussed. The effects of an insulating surface on the growth of avalanches is reviewed; it is evident that electron emission by photon bombardment of the surface is a significant mechanism. The development of corona on surfaces is discussed. Recent experiments on streamer growth, in the absence of significant space charge, are described. It is concluded, from all the evidence, that each material has an individual, characteristic, effect on the growth of avalanches and streamers.