Repetitive Peak Reverse Voltage (VRRM) - Repetitive peak
reverse voltage is the maximum allowable instantaneous
value of reverse voltage across the rectifier diode. Applied
reverse voltages below this maximum value will produce only
negligible leakage currents through the device.Voltages in
excess of this maximum value, however, can cause circuit
malfunction - and even permanent component damage -
because significant reverse currents will flow through the
device. For example, Vishay General Semiconductor’s
GP02-40 rectifier diode has a peak reverse voltage rating
(VRRM) of 4000 V, maximum. Applied reverse voltages of
4 kV or less will produce a maximum reverse leakage
current, IR, of 5 μA through the device when operated at
room temperature (25 °C). In most cases, this leakage
current is considered negligible, and the device is said to be
completely blocking (IR = 0)