Evidence of near-ultraviolet emission during electrical-tree initiation in polyethylene
- 15 January 1987
- journal article
- Published by AIP Publishing in Journal of Applied Physics
- Vol. 61 (2), 694-699
- https://doi.org/10.1063/1.338221
Abstract
The spectra of light emitted during electrical‐tree initiation in low‐density polyethylene used in high‐voltage cables were investigated. Light in the visible and in the near‐ultraviolet range was detected. Low‐density polyethylene subjected to highly divergent fields at voltages below the light‐inception level did not develop an electrical tree, and it is suggested that the light‐inception voltage is the threshold for insulation degradation. The ultraviolet light emitted at voltages above the light‐inception level could cause degradation of the polymer. A model is proposed to explain the mechanism of electroluminescence. Ultraviolet stabilizers added to the polymer prolonged the time to electrical‐tree initiation by preventing photodegradation of the polymer.Keywords
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