Enhancement of insulation properties of LLDPE by PPy-functionalized PS-NPs

The strategy of functionalized PS-NPs via PPy (PPy@PS-NPs) forming heterogeneous interface composition is highly efficient in increasing the insulation properties of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). The morphology results show that PPy@PS-NPs are monodispersed in the LLDPE matrix after melting blend, which exhibits unparalleled engineering application value. The electrical insulation results show that PPy@PS-NPs introduced into the LLDPE matrix can reduce its DC electrical conductivity, enhance DC breakdown strength, and inhibit space charge accumulation. When the PPy@PS-NPs concentration is 0.5 wt%, the DC breakdown strength is 35.3 % higher than that of LLDPE. Mechanism research indicates that the depths of carrier traps are decreased due to high electron affinity caused by the introduction of PPy@PS-NPs, but the trap density is increased. The reported strategy of using functionalized polymer nanoparticles to improve the polymer insulation property provides new insights for developing future high-insulation materials and other functional materials based on functionalized polymer nanofillers.