Partial discharge-induced degradation characteristics of epoxy/TiO2 nanocomposite

Epoxy resin has become an integral part of electronic and electrical devices for their excellent mechanical and electrical performance. Nano-composite technology makes it possible to improve electrical properties of insulating materials. For the use of nanocomposites of epoxy resin, it must be confirmed whether the electrical performance with nanoparticles is different from that without nanoparticles. This paper describes the effects of nanoparticles on tracking failure of epoxy by applying dc voltages. Prior to test, the samples were prepared by dispersing different weight ratios of nano-scale TiO₂ into epoxy resin by mixing with shear force. The weight ratio of nanoparticles effects on the time to tracking failure and the discharge quantity of discharge current were discussed. Obtained results show that with increasing the weight ratio of nanoparticles, the resistance to tracking failure increased first and then decreased. The experimental results suggest that the chemical structure plays a main role in the result of the nano-filler, which is related to interaction zone between nanoparticles. Dielectric properties are improved by the nanoparticles of TiO₂.