Impulse space charge and dielectric characteristics of an Al2O3 nanoparticle suspension in propylene carbonate using various electrode materials

We tested the impulse breakdown voltage of Al2O3 “nano-modified” propylene carbonate between different electrode materials. At any given concentration, the breakdown voltage was highest with stainless steel electrodes, followed by copper, and then aluminum. The space charge and electric field distributions were measured too. Results show that less space charge was injected by the electrodes, and the electric field was less distorted, than in pure propylene carbonate. However, the hoped-for reduction of the influence of the electrodes did not take place. Substantial differences in the space charge density and electric field distortion remained between the different electrode materials.