Quantities extracted from space-charge measurements as markers for insulation aging

The relation of space charge-derived quantities with aging stresses and time is discussed in this paper. Polyethylene-based materials, aged for different times under electrical and/or thermal stress, are subjected to space charge measurements. Quantities are derived, that is, the threshold for space charge accumulation and the apparent, trap-controlled mobility, obtained by the threshold and the depolarisation characteristics, respectively, which show time variations depending on the level of applied stress and aging time, i.e. on the extent of degradation. This indicates that such quantities can be considered as aging markers useful for the diagnosis of bulk degradation in insulation systems aged under electrical field, dc or ac, and temperature.