| Dielectric Polymer Nanocomposites | 310 |
|---|
| 1 | 310 |
|---|
| 1 Background, Principles and Promise of Nanodielectrics | 10 |
| 1.1 An Introductory Perspective of Electrical Insulation | 10 |
| 1.1.1 The Emergence of Nanocomposites | 11 |
| 1.1.2 Multifunctionality | 12 |
| 1.1.3 A Philosophical Perspective | 13 |
| 1.2 The Compounding of Dielectric Nanocomposites | 16 |
| 1.2.1 The Importance and Assessment of Dispersion | 17 |
| 1.2.2 Functionalization | 20 |
| 1.3 Property Modifications | 23 |
| 1.3.1 Property Augmentation of Practical Significance | 23 |
| 1.3.2 Property Characterization for Diagnostic Purposes | 27 |
| 1.3.2.1 Dielectric Spectroscopy | 28 |
| 1.3.2.2 Internal Space Charge Characteristics | 30 |
| 1.3.2.3 Dielectric Absorption | 30 |
| 1.3.2.4 Thermally Stimulated Currents | 33 |
| 1.3.2.5 Electroluminescence | 34 |
| 1.4 Other Issues | 35 |
| References | 36 |
| 2 The Processing of Nanocomposites | 40 |
| 2.1 Introduction to Nanofillers | 40 |
| 2.1.1 Classification of the Fillers | 40 |
| 2.1.2 Surface Filler Treatment | 45 |
| 2.2 Classification of the Processing of Nanocomposites | 49 |
| 2.2.1 In Situ Polymerization Process | 49 |
| 2.2.1.1 Thermoplastic Materials | 50 |
| 2.2.1.2 Thermosetting Materials | 51 |
| 2.2.2 Solvent Method | 53 |
| 2.2.3 Melt Blending | 54 |
| 2.2.4 Sol--Gel Process | 56 |
| 2.3 Effects of Contaminants | 57 |
| 2.3.1 Effect of By-Products of a Compatibilization Process | 57 |
| 2.3.2 Effect of Moisture | 61 |
| 2.4 The Assessment of Dispersion and Morphological Characterization | 67 |
| References | 69 |
| 3 Special Considerations for Clay-Based Materials | 74 |
| 3.1 The Nature of Clay Composites | 74 |
| 3.1.1 Structure and Properties of Clay | 74 |
| 3.1.2 Characteristics of Clay Nanocomposites | 75 |
| 3.1.3 Effects of Clay Dispersion on Polymer Properties | 76 |
| 3.1.3.1 Mechanical Properties | 77 |
| 3.1.3.2 Thermal Properties | 77 |
| 3.1.3.3 Electrical Insulation (Partial Discharge Resistance) | 78 |
| 3.1.3
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