Plasma Surface Modification for Regulating Material Insulation Performance: Mechanism Diagnostics and Applications

Protecting insulating materials from extreme environmental conditions to maintain their insulation performance, dielectric properties, and long-term durability is a critical challenge that researchers must address. This review examines the mechanisms and applications of plasma treatment technology in enhancing the insulation performance of materials. First, from a material performance perspective, the effects of plasma modification on key endurance characteristicssuch as breakdown strength, flashover voltage, and contact angleas well as various dielectric properties are analyzed. Second, the specific application outcomes of non-thermal plasma treatment technologies, including dielectric barrier discharge (DBD), corona discharge, microwave discharge, and radiofrequency (RF) discharge, are discussed in detail regarding their effectiveness in improving and enhancing the insulation and dielectric properties of insulators. Finally, a comprehensive assessment of recent research progress is provided.