Studying the fine structure of a nanosecond breakdown channel in potassium chloride

The fine structure of a breakdown channel from a positive electrode in KCl single crystal is studied in the multipulse exposure at a voltage of 140 kV. The dimensions and the shapes of breakdown structures are established as the functions of the applied voltage. The velocity of propagation of a crack vertex forming the breakdown structure, as well as the pressure in the breakdown channel, are estimated. It is shown that under certain conditions the mechanical destruction structure near the breakdown channel is retained even after several dozen pulses are applied.