Transformation of a Taylor cone into a frustum upon discharge in viscous dielectric liquids

The specifics of behavior of viscous electrolytes (exemplified by glycerol) subjected to spark discharges with direct connection of electrodes and in the induced charge mode have been studied. The transformation of a Taylor cone into a frustum, the stable existence of which depends on the polarization time, has been observed for the first time with cyclic discharges in the interelectrode space localized between an anodepolarizable viscous dielectric liquid (glycerol) and an overhanging cathode-polarizable metal electrode. The frustum development criteria (high dynamic viscosity and electric strength of the solution and low conductivity) have been determined.