Influence of UV Radiations on the Performance of Novel High Voltage Polyamide Nanocomposite Insulators /

Abstract

In this research a comprehensive review of the literature on polymeric insulators, polyamide (Nylon) nanocomposites, and their performance under UV aging was performed. The comparison of polymeric insulators and conventional ceramic insulators is discussed, along with the environmental aging phenomenon of polymeric insulators. The preparation and performance analysis of modern insulation technologies with advancements in nanotechnology are also presented. The latest studies of polymeric insulators under Unistress and multistress environments are reviewed, and it is concluded that UV radiation is one of the major environmental stresses that degrade the physical and structural properties of polymeric insulators. The aim of this research is to investigate the effects of UV radiations and DC electrical stress on the performance of novel polyamide nanocomposite insulators with different percentages of ZnO nanofillers loading. A specialized UV chamber is used to provide a controlled weathering environment for this study. The performance of the nanocomposite is examined before and after aging using various analytical techniques. SEM and XRD are used to confirm the composite structure, and STRI and contact angle are employed to assess surface hydrophobicity, which shows a decreasing trend after UV aging, but the sample with 3% wt. of ZnO exhibited better performance. FTIR is used to analyze chemical bonding, and oxidation is evident at the C=O functional group at wavenumber 1728.04 cm . Visual inspection and OM are used to observe any material loss or resistance to it. UV-Vis and leakage current analysis are also conducted. The results indicate that appropriate amounts of ZnO nanofillers with good dispersion can enhance the properties of insulators against harmful UV radiation in outdoor environments. The study highlights the potential of these nanocomposites for use as insulators in electrical applications. The study is significant because it demonstrates the effectiveness of nanocomposite technology in improving the durability and lifespan of polymeric insulators, which are widely used in high-voltage transmission and distribution systems.