Modeling current pulse shape and energy in surface discharges

Fast oscilloscope recordings of current pulse shapes of positive surface discharges have been analyzed. An equivalent circuit is proposed, and its parameters are derived from the oscillograms. Equivalent electrical circuits of electrostatic discharges provide a realistic way to simulate various discharges and to perform controlled laboratory tests. The equivalent circuit concept also gives an analytic expression of the discharge current, and thus, it is possible to calculate and estimate the charge transfer and the total discharge energy. These results are valuable for risk assessment of both the incendivity (i.e. dust and gas explosions) and the damage electrostatic discharges might cause to electronic devices