Electrical Conduction and Space Charge in Gamma-Irradiated XLPE
C. Mouchache, N. Saidi-Amroun, V. Griseri, M. Saïdi, G. Teyssèdre
Abstract
It is well known that ionizing radiation impact dielectric and mechanical properties of polymers, as a result of chain scission, crosslinking, and oxidation steps. The electrical conductivity is generally substantially increased after irradiation. We analyze such effects in cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) after gamma-irradiation. Current measurements reveal a substantial increase in conductivity after irradiation at doses up to 200 kGy. Current-field characteristics change after irradiation and appear indicative of an ionic-type conduction. Space charge measurements confirm the mechanism with obvious heterocharge build-up after irradiation.
Topics & Concepts
IrradiationSpace chargeMaterials scienceConductivityElectrical resistivity and conductivityPolyethyleneDielectricThermal conductionIonizing radiationPolymerGamma irradiationIonic conductivityChain scissionComposite materialAnalytical Chemistry (journal)OptoelectronicsElectrodeElectronChemistryElectrical engineeringPhysical chemistryPhysicsChromatographyNuclear physicsQuantum mechanicsEngineeringElectrolyteHigh voltage insulation and dielectric phenomenaPolymer Nanocomposite Synthesis and IrradiationDielectric materials and actuators