The dispersion in the measurements of the electric strength of pure hydrocarbon liquids using direct voltage is significantly reduced using a hydrogen thyratron by-passing circuit. The damage due to discharge, mainly produced on the anode, is much less, and many more measurements on a particular sample are possible. Experiments with n-hexane show that the breakdown is practically independent of both electrode material and external radiation uniform fields but that it is dependent on the cathode gradient when the field is non-uniform. The electric strengths of the paraffins, pentane to decane, at room temperature increase with chain length and with decreasing gap. The strength is higher at low temperatures but decreases rapidly near boiling point. Cyclohexane and benzene show a different temperature dependence. A possible mechanism of breakdown in these liquids, in accordance with the experimental results, is suggested. This involves the formation of an electron avalanche in the

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paraffins cathode gradient hydrocarbon discharge radiation uniform fields electrode hydrogen thyratron bypassing electric strength direct voltage

Lewis, T.J.,.Electrical breakdown in organic liquids. 100 (3),141-148.

Lewis, T.J.,"Electrical breakdown in organic liquids" 100

Lewis, T.J.,"Electrical breakdown in organic liquids"