Electrical conductivity of a metal powder struck by a spark
AUTHOR(S)
E. Beloni, E. L. Dreizin, P. R. Santhanam
PUBLISHER
Elsevier
SOURCE
Journal of Electrostatics
YEAR
ABSTRACT
Equivalent resistance of a polydisperse powder layer struck by an electric spark is evaluated. Particles were computationally created and mixed using discrete element method; the mixing protocol homogenized particle size distribution within the sample. The conductivity was determined from the equivalent resistance network for the simulated powder bed. A plasma streamer attached to a particle on top of the sample. For each particle contact, an electrical breakdown was assumed; each individual contact resistance was calculated considering its geometry and plasma resistivity. Results of calculations compare well with the available experimental data.
KEYWORDS
Discrete element modeling (DEM), Electrical conductivity, ESD, Micro-discharge, Spherical metal powder