Micro-Nanostructured Silicone Surfaces for Highvoltage Application

In order to overcome the issues corresponding to ice and pollution accumulation on silicone rubber high-voltage insulators, superhydrophobic and self-cleaning silicone rubber surfaces were fabricated and studied. Micro-nanostructures with water-repelling properties can be fabricated on surface by direct replication using non-expensive bench top auto press. A facile chemical method was used to create micro-nanostructures on the intended template. SEM images were used to verify the presence of micro-nanostructures on the replica. Using profilometry analysis the replication quality was assessed. The wettability properties of the surfaces were studied by water contact angle (WCA) and sliding angle (SA) measurements. The self-cleaning property of the fabricated SH surfaces was evaluated against artificial pollution i.e. a kaolin solution.