DC breakdown studies of epoxy-TiO2 nano composite material at low filler concentrations

• Main Authors: Ajesh, S., Jyothis, M. Akshay, Anand, E. S., Anandhu, Prakash, Siny, Paul
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Subjects: Composite materials; Dielectric breakdown; Dielectrics; Direct current; Electric potential; Electric power systems; Electrical insulation; Electrical resistivity; Fillers; Impact analysis; Mica; Nanocomposites; Nanoparticles; Nanotechnology; Performance evaluation; Simulation; Software; Surface flashover; Titanium dioxide
• ISSN: 0094-243X; 1551-7616
• DOI: 10.1063/5.0230711

A perfect dielectric refers to a material that exhibits zero electrical conductivity, making it an excellent electrical insulator. For high-performance insulation materials and structures, it is crucial to ensure the absence of surface flashover and unanticipated dielectric breakdown. Flashover occurs at the interface between the insulator and the surrounding air or vacuum, while dielectric breakdown refers to the failure of the insulator to withstand electric stress. Common dielectric materials employed in various applications include rubber, mica, paper, glass, and ceramics. However, the growing demand for improved performance and the challenges associated with flashover voltage necessitate the development of new and advanced materials for power systems. In this regard, nanotechnology offers potential solutions through the use of nanocomposite materials. Nanocomposites are solid materials comprising multiple phases, where at least one phase has dimensions of less than 100 nanometres. This paper focuses on the preparation and analysis of a nanocomposite material consisting of titanium dioxide (TiO2) embedded in an epoxy matrix. The study explores different weight percentages of TiO2 to determine its impact on the material’s properties. To analyse the nanocomposite materials, we utilized the COMSOL software for simulation purposes. The simulations involved epoxy-TiO2 nanocomposites with varying filler loadings. By employing COMSOL, we evaluated the electrical behaviour and performance of the nanocomposites under different conditions. Experimental work complemented the simulation analysis. Nanocomposite samples were prepared with varying percentages of TiO2 and subjected to High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) breakdown tests. These tests aimed to assess the breakdown strength of the nanocomposites, providing valuable insights into their insulation properties. Remarkably, the research findings indicate that even at very low weight percentages, TiO2 nanoparticles exhibit exceptional insulation properties when compared to their macroscopic counterparts. This outcome highlights the potential of incorporating nanoscale additives, such as TiO2, to enhance the electrical performance of dielectric materials. In conclusion, the pursuit of improved dielectric materials for power systems has led to the exploration of nanocomposites. Through the use of nanotechnology, we prepared and analyzed epoxy-TiO2 nanocomposite materials at different weight percentages of TiO2. Th