Abstract

Polymer nanocomposites with metal oxide nanoparticle fillers exhibit enhanced electrical breakdown strength and voltage endurance compared to their unfilled or micron filled counterparts. This paper presents the following hypothesis for the mechanisms leading to improved properties. The inclusion of nanoparticles provides myriad scattering obstacles and trap sites in the charge carriers' paths, effectively reducing carrier mobility and thus carrier energy. The result is homocharge buildup at the electrodes, which increases the voltage required for further charge injection due to blocking by the homocharge. The hypothesis is supported by electroluminescence, pulsed electro acoustic analysis, thermally stimulated current measurements, a comparison of AC, DC, and impulse breakdown, as well as absorption current measurements, in silica/crosslinked polyethylene matrix composites with supporting evidence from titania/epoxy composites.