Effect of byproducts of dicumyl peroxide on space charge formation in low-density polyethylene

For DC transmission, crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) cables are still under feasibility study due to severe concern about space charge. In the bulk of XLPE insulated cables, there remain liquid chemicals such as acetophenone, a-methylstyrene, and cumylalcohol. We have examined the effects of these remaining chemicals on the space charge evolution in low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The most important conclusion obtained is that acetophenone and a-methylstyrene in LDPE assist the carrier transport, while cumylalcohol. traps the carriers.