Streamers and percolation-a new theoretical approach

An alternative streamer model describing the initial quantum mechanical processes leading to streamer inception and propagation in a microstructural model as well as the macrostructural phenomena e.g., streamer shape and changes in streamer propagation modes by use of percolation theory is presented. Fundamental differences between positive and negative streamer structures may be explained by the model. Streamer modes, primary, secondary and tertiary streamers are shown to be the consequence of different electron conductivity mechanisms leading to changes in the liquid´s microstructure. These changes may be described macroscopically with the aid of percolation theory concepts. With increasing electron energy, electrical channels arise in the bulk of the liquid, defining the future shape of the streamer generated. Coupling of these quantum mechanical processes to resulting macroscopical streamer propagation phenomena is integrated in the model