A novel slippery liquid infused porous aluminum conductor with excellent corrosion resistance in simulated marine atmosphere

Abstract

The overhead aluminum conductors are prone to corrosion, especially in areas with marine climates, which interferes with the safe operation of the power system. Herein, slippery liquid infused porous surface (SLIPS) conductors were successfully prepared on pure aluminum (Bare) conductors by anodizing and infusion of silicone oil. The corrosion resistance of the conductors during 30 days of salt spray corrosion and 7 days of energized conditions was studied. The results indicated that the corrosion of the Bare and anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) conductors was more severe under energized (alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC)) conditions. The exacerbation of corrosion by DC energization was remarkably higher than that of AC energization. The AAO conductor showed better corrosion resistance than the Bare conductor, which was attributed to the porous alumina retarding the medium intrusion. Due to the barrier effect provided by the lubricant layer, the SLIPS conductor always presented excellent corrosion resistance than the Bare and AAO conductors. In addition, the mechanical and electrical properties of the SLIPS conductor were comparable to the Bare conductor and could satisfy the basic requirements for practical applications. The prepared SLIPS conductors offer great application prospects for the corrosion protection of aluminum conductors.