High-Speed Imaging Techniques for Imaging High-Jitter Dielectric Breakdown

Imaging mechanically induced dielectric breakdown, which unfolds on ultra-short timescales, poses a formidable challenge. A significant hurdle in this endeavor is breakdown initiation jitter, where even a tenth of a microsecond of timing deviation can frustrate imaging efforts. Our initial attempt to use a gigahertz frame rate camera to record dielectric breakdown initiated by an exploding bridge wire detonator was hindered by pronounced initiation jitter.<br/><br/>To surmount this obstacle, we developed an innovative optical image delay line apparatus to mitigate the effects of breakdown jitter on imaging timing. In this presentation, we delve into the design and performance of this optical delay line apparatus, showcasing its transformative impact. The integration of the optical delay line increased image capture success rate from 25% to 94%. Moreover, it facilitated superior temporal resolution. Beyond its applicability in the realm of dielectric breakdown, this technique holds promise for imaging other high-jitter, ultra-fast phenomena