Influence of surface modification on electrical properties of polyethylene SiO2 nanocomposites

This experimental study reported electrical properties of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE)/SiO₂ nanocomposites prepared by melt blending methods. The effects of surface modified SiO₂ nanoparticles on the microstructure, space charge distribution and thermally stimulated current were investigated. The addition of surface modified nanoparticles increases the amount of spherulites and decreases their sizes. It is found that the LDPE/SiO₂ interface shows significant influence on electrical properties of nanocomposites. The addition of SiO₂ nanoparticles is capable of suppressing the production of space charges. Thermally stimulated currents in nanocomposites reveal strong correlation between the traps and electrical properties of nanocomposites. It is believed that this study would provide important hint for future studies of the interface mechanism in improving properties.