Preparation and insulation properties of epoxy-layered silicate nanocomposite

Abstract

Herein we report insulation properties of epoxy-layered silicate nanocomposite prepared by dispersing modified layered silicates in an epoxy resin. This nanocomposite has an intercalated structure formed by an insertion of resin molecules into the spaces between each silicate layer, and it has higher insulation breakdown strength than that of an epoxy resin without layered silicate fillers. The electrical treeing progress with many branches in the nanocomposite seemed to result in an increase in insulation breakdown strength. These results suggest the possibility of their application as insulating materials in heavy apparatuses. ©2004 IEEE.