The small sponge attached to brass screen was dry. During the execution, enough saline solution transferred from wet sponge to dry sponge to permit lethal current to flow. Due to small wetted area, the current density was great, thus elevating the temperature. Burning of sponge and headgear resulted. Execution equipment, up to and including high voltage cables, performed properly.
Saline solution is saturated if undissolved salt remains in bottom of container after stirring.
Sponges must be wet. Use of gel on skin is optional. Most executions have been performed without gel. If used successfully in past, don't change brands. Fix and calibrate chart recorder.