Analysis of Surface Potential Decay and Charge Trap Characteristics of Water Diffused Silicone Rubber Nanocomposites

Abstract

Silicone rubber is extensively used as outdoor insulation structure. In the present study the performance of silicone rubber alumina nanocomposite is analysed under water diffusion. Silicone rubber nanocomposites were prepared with different weight percentages of nano alumina. The fundamental surface potential decay along with charge trap characteristics were studied and FTIR analysis is used to evaluate change in functional groups that may arise as a result of moisture absorption. The results of the study indicate an increase in surface potential decay rate and variation in the charge trap depth with water diffused nanocomposites. The results show that 5 wt. % alumina reinforced silicone rubber nanocomposite specimen has performed better.