Electrical conductivity of polyethylene-neodymium composites

In this paper, a study regarding the influence of the filler content on the electrical conductivity of low density polyethylene (LDPE)-Neodymium (Nd) composites is presented. Flat samples having the dimensions 100 · 100 · 0.5 mm³ were manufactured from low density polyethylene (LDPE) as polymeric matrix and Nd spherical particles (purity - 99 %) as filler by a melt mixing process using a compatibility agent. The distribution of the particles in the polymeric matrix was analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy. The variations of the DC conductivity and AC conductivity with temperature, frequency and filler content were studied. The symmetric hopping model for disordered solids was used to explain the results. Finally, the possibility to use these materials in electrical engineering field is analyzed.