Ignition Phenomenon: From Electrostatics to Electrical Discharge

Abstract

Throughout the world, in many industries, flammable materials are flowing, spraying, vaporizing, and condensing in controlled systems on daily basis. On occasion, incidents occur where the flammable material is released from its controlled environment and has the ability to mix with an oxidant creating a potentially explosive mixture. If the explosive mixture finds a sufficiently strong ignition source, severe consequences may ensue. One of the most sought after questions in the industry is the quantification of the ignition source.

Throughout history, reducing or eliminating the ignition source for flammable releases has been paramount. Countless hours have been spent studying the elusive “where did the ignition source come from” and “how can we prevent ignition from occurring”. Many avenues exist for creating an ignition source, but none more treacherous than the realm of electrostatics. Electrostatically fueled potentials can occur from upset conditions or normal operations, including vessels and piping that have been bonded, grounded, or both.

To our knowledge, this provide an initial look which includes quantum mechanical principals as a mechanism that motivates an electrostatic discharge, specifically relying upon quantum electrodynamics to explain the source of ignition. This paper focuses on the ability of insulating media to develop electrostatic buildup and a subsequent discharge upon the breakdown of a dielectric, including air.