Monitoring the effects of temperature, electrical and chemical stress on silicone polymers

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Composite polymer insulators are an attractive alternative to traditional ceramic or glass insulators for overhead power distribution to towns and cities across the globe. In countries like Canada, there are two specific challenges to the long-term use of these materials: chemical stress in the form of salts that are used on roads in winter conditions, and large seasonal temperature fluctuations. Both of these environmental factors can impact the water repellency of the silicone materials. Our lab has developed a combination of experimental techniques for the application of salt stress and realistic (40 kV) high voltage to simulate electrical power line conditions. This proposal investigates the effect of temperature cycling, salt and high voltage exposure to the surfaces of insulators. The knowhow resulting from these projects furthers Canadian innovation in a global power delivery market, and provides unique training opportunities for the next generation of materials scientists and engineers.