Electroluminescence Characteristics of Epoxy/TiO2 Nanocomposites

Abstract

The AC breakdown strength of epoxy/TiO2 nanocomposites (NC) with agglomerate sizes smaller than 50 nm is higher than that of unfilled epoxy. However, the mechanism responsible for this breakdown strength enhancement has not been clarified. Observing the electroluminescence (EL) of these materials may provide insight into insulation deterioration in the early stages. This study investigated the EL characteristics of unfilled epoxy and NC to clarify the mechanism for the enhancement of the breakdown strength. We fabricated NCs with controlled agglomerate sizes using centrifugation. The EL of NC was measured under an AC ramp electric field. The number of EL pulses of the NC is found to be less than that of the unfilled epoxy. The EL inception and extinction electric fields of the NC are higher than those of the unfilled epoxy. These results indicate that the dispersed nanoparticles suppress EL generation.