Analysis of volatile components in polymeric dielectric insulation

The amount and composition of low molecular weight volatile compounds found in extruded polymeric dielectric cable insulation can influence the extent of degradation and offer valuable clues as to the nature of the polymeric degradation and the presence of various additives. Analysis of such volatile materials is, therefore, of considerable interest. The objective of this study was to analytically determine the volatile components present in EPR and EPDM electrical insulation. This work involved the development of a new analytical technique combining thermogravimetric analysis for isolation and trapping of the volatile components and GC/MS, gas chromatography- mass spectroscopy analysis for identification. A separate water analysis was employed to quantitatively determine water present in the insulations.