Recent Progress in Dielectric Research

Plasma physics of liquids—A focused review

“…The research history of plasma formation in the liquid phase goes back to the second quarter of the previous century, 58 when investigations were mainly stimulated by the application of insulating transformer oil. Already at this early stage, two opposing plasma initiating mechanisms were postulated for voltage-induced breakdown at a submerged electrode.…”

“…One school of thought, indicated as the electronic mechanism, suggested electrical discharge to be generated purely by electric processes in the liquid phase. 58 According to the rivaling bubble mechanism, plasma initiation occurs in a gas phase, i.e., a bubble. 58 As such, everything boiled down to a fundamental dilemma-which comes first: plasma or bubble?…”

“…58 According to the rivaling bubble mechanism, plasma initiation occurs in a gas phase, i.e., a bubble. 58 As such, everything boiled down to a fundamental dilemma-which comes first: plasma or bubble? In other words, does ionization precede evaporation or vice versa?…”