Nanodielectrics in High-Voltage Applications

• Research unit: INNOSUISSE
• Project number: 7949.3;6 NMPP-NM

Short description (English)

Nanodielectrics in High-Voltage Applications

Abstract (English)

Synthesis of pure and mixed ZnO, TiO2 and SiO2 and other nanoparticles for dielectric nanocomposites used in high voltage applications is carried out by a flame spray aerosol process. A variety of precursors is used to produce such tailor-made functional nanoparticles of various compositions and particle size. These particles are incorporated into selected polymers to achieve improved dielectric and surface properties. A homogeneous distribution of the particles in the polymer matrix is required for dielectric, mechanical and thermal enhancements which are only achieved with non-agglomerated or weakly agglomerated particles. These particles have a potential to contribute to synthesis of novel nanocomposite dielectrics to replace bulky dielectric components in external power transmission lines or to replace pure polymer dielectrics employed in high voltage applications, if the product quality fulfils the requirements requested by high voltage applications. After determining optimal dielectric performance, selected compositions of these particles will be made at the ETHZ pilot plant producing up to 1 kg/h nanoparticles today.