I want to Ionize Hydrogen in a Balloon

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the challenges of ionizing hydrogen gas within latex balloons using a 20KV high voltage source from a TV anode. The primary issue identified is that the electric field generated is insufficient to ionize hydrogen at 1 bar pressure. Participants express concerns about safety, highlighting the risk of hydrogen explosions if leaks occur. The conversation concludes with a suggestion that the original poster may have alternative ideas, although no concrete solutions are provided.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of high voltage systems, specifically 20KV applications
  • Knowledge of gas ionization principles
  • Familiarity with the properties of hydrogen under pressure
  • Awareness of safety protocols when working with flammable gases
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for increasing electric field strength for gas ionization
  • Explore safe practices for handling hydrogen in experimental setups
  • Investigate alternative high voltage sources for better ionization efficiency
  • Learn about the physics of gas behavior under varying pressure conditions
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for experimental physicists, electrical engineers, and hobbyists interested in high voltage applications and gas ionization techniques.

Jedi_Sawyer
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Right now I blow up latex balloons with hydrogen. I am using the 20KV from a TV anode. I don't seem to be able to just stick the bare wire end of this HV source to ionize the Hydrogen. Covering the outside of the balloon with tin foil and putting the 20KV on that did next to nothing.

Any ideas how I can ionize the hydrogen inside the balloon?
 
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You like to play dangerous games, don't you !

The answer why it doesn't work is that the pressure of the hydrogen is too high, and the electric field too low: you have 20 KV over several cm at 1 bar, this is simply not strong enough.

But I would urge you to stop doing what you do: if ever you have a leak, and you have a spark because of the HV, then you will have a rather powerful hydrogen explosion.
 
No I am just using just a little hydrogen in about 10" Balloons, even if ignited it would just flash about like a fire cracker, but even a 20KV arc that popped the balloon didn't catch it on fire.
 
So nobody knows

So nobody knows how to do this, well I have some ideas
 
Jedi_Sawyer said:
So nobody knows how to do this, well I have some ideas

Since you already know, then this thread is moot.

Zz.
 

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