In situ infrared spectroscopy of electric field induced microstructural changes in polyethylene

Application of an electric field on a polymer leads to microstructural and morphology changes, interpreted as electrical aging, which eventually lead to dielectric breakdown. Infrared spectroscopy is a diagnostic technique which gives information on the microstructure of the materials. However, spectra taken days after the removal of a high electric field on the materials show little influence [1] probably because of the relaxation of the molecular chains. Therefore, in situ infrared spectroscopy of the materials under high electric field is a more appropriate method of studying field induced structural changes which sould lead to a better understanding of electrical aging.