Modelling space charge and field in solid dielectrics

The complex mechanisms which cause the high-voltage breakdown of solid dielectrics are currently being studied by a collaborative project in the UK. Fundamental to the understanding of breakdown is mathematical modelling of the macroscopic motion of charge in a dielectric under high field. This paper draws together some of the results obtained from the modelling. Validation of Deutsch´s assumption (1933), which underlies the work, and results corresponding to an a.c. applied voltage are presented for the first time