A simple criterion of the vacuum breakdown threshold

摘要

A simple criterion allowing estimation of the impact energy threshold being capable to trigger vacuum dielectric breakdown at the cathode is suggested on the basis of empirical data on vacuum arc plasma parameters and cathode material parameters. Estimations of the threshold energy are rather in agreement with experimental data for high-voltage vacuum insulation, which gives a ground to use the criterion in analysis of vacuum breakdown under rarefied plasma at 100-V-range voltages.