Towards a better knowledge of insulating polymers under stress

This contribution to a better understanding of insulating materials which are evolving in the domain of electrical engineering, concerns two polymers: a low density polyethylene free of additives, and an amorphous and biaxially oriented poly(ethylene-2,6 dicarboxylate). Through conductivity, dielectric relaxation and luminescence measurements the importance is shown of the role played by the structure of the material on its electrical properties. Also, the evolution of these properties under electrical stress or environmental conditions, such as electrical discharges, are studied.