Polymeric insulating materials characteristics for high-voltage applications

Large-scale power system transmission and transformation equipment operates in high-voltage environments, placing notable requirements on the insulation strength of polymers used in core insulation frameworks. Increasing the polymer insulation performance in high-voltage environments is crucial for protecting large-capacity and integrated power equipment and ensuring the safe and stable operation of electrical devices. Here, we discuss the phenomena and the underlying mechanisms of bulk breakdown and surface flashover that lead to insulation failure in polymers and present relative strategies to increasing the performance of the insulating materials. We analyse the challenges faced by polymeric insulating materials in various extreme environments and the strategies to address them. Finally, we identify key challenges and highlight future directions and opportunities for the development of reliable polymeric insulating materials. Polymeric insulating materials are crucial for high-voltage electrical equipment. This Review describes the insulation failure mechanisms of polymeric insulating materials used in high-voltage applications, introduces ways to improve insulating performance and discusses the open challenges and future development directions.