What is a critical factor for conductive materials used in lightning protection?

High conductivity is a critical factor for conductive materials used in lightning protection. This is essential because lightning generates extremely high electrical currents, and the materials utilized in a lightning protection system must effectively carry these currents away from the structure being protected. Materials with high conductivity, such as copper or aluminum, ensure that the electrical energy from a lightning strike can be dissipated safely into the ground without causing damage to the structure or the protection system itself.

When evaluating conductive materials, high conductivity minimizes the resistance encountered, which is crucial during a lightning event. Materials with lower conductivity could overheat or fail under the intense electrical surge of a lightning strike, rendering the protection system ineffective. This fundamental property is therefore paramount in ensuring safety and reliability in lightning protection systems.