Low Density Polyethylene - Clay Nano Dielectric prepared by Melt Extrusion Process: Dielectric and Thermal properties

Abstract

LDPE Nano clay dielectric has been investigated as fillers in low density polyethylene in concentrations of 1 phr to 4 phr (1gm in 100 gm). LDPE- clay melt compound was pressed under a plate vulcanizer at 140 °C for 10 minutes to produce film samples of 100 micron and 200 micron. The distribution and dispersion of the nano particles in the LDPE is determined by SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy). Electrical properties were determined by measuring surface resistivity, volume resistivity and AC breakdown strength. Dielectric response studies were carried out using spectroscopic techniques like Dielectric spectroscopy (dielectric loss angle, permittivity, capacitance measurements as a function of frequency from few mHz to tens of kHz), DIRANA, VLF $\mathbf{tan} \boldsymbol{\delta}$ at 2 kV and at different temperature from 40 °C to 70 °C. Thermal properties like Enthalpy, decomposition temperature, percentage decomposition and tensile strength with thermal ageing were measured. The surface and volume resistivity have increased by one order and permittivity has increased with increase in filler content and frequency. The dielectric losses have shown an increasing trend with increase in temperature. The stress strain curves indicate the mechanical stability decrease with increase in filler content. The results are presented and discussed.