Elucidation of the chemical reaction in the crosslinked poltethtlene insulation exposed to high temperature

Insulation of crosslinked polyethylene (ILPE) insulated power cables may be occasionally exposed to nigh temperature above 150°C for relatively short period in the course of cable jointing procedure. The authors have reported that the cumyl alcohol produced as a decomposition product from crosslinking agent (dicumyl peroxide, DCP) might be dehydrated to leave water in the XLPE insulation during the procedure (1). The water thus formed may decrease cable performance with the formation of voids in XLPE insulation.