Electrically isolated propagating streamer heads formed by strong electron attachment

Abstract Streamer discharges occur in the early stages of electric breakdown gases lightning, as well plasma and high voltage technology. They are growing filaments characterized by a curved charge layer at their tip that enhances field ahead them. In this study, we analyze effect strong electron attachment on propagation positive streamers. Strong occurs insulating like sulphur hexafluoride (SF 6 ) or air increased density. We use classical fluid approximation with photo-ionization for streamers ambient air, artificially increase rate where is below value. This modification approximates pressures above 1 bar room temperature. find streamer head can keep propagating even though ionized channel loses its conductivity closely behind head; hence, if it electrically isolated. describe how, depending rate, constant be accelerating, uniformly translating, stagnating.