Dielectric strength of condensed cryogenic helium

The quantitative theory of the intrinsic dielectric strength of condensed helium under cryogenic temperatures is considered. It is based on examining the electron impact multiplication process in this medium in a strong electric field. The method of the electron kinetic Boltzmann equation is used to calculate the impact ionization coefficients and other related transport quantities. These quantities have been used to find such important breakdown characteristics as the breakdown fields and the breakdown formation times. The extension of the theory to the case of microwave and laser-induced breakdown of cryogenic condensed helium is also discussed