High-field conduction and breakdown in insulating polymers. Present situation and future prospects

We review the results of electrical conduction and breakdown research reported mainly after 1980 in Japan, and comment on the present situation and future prospect of research work in this field. Effects of introduction of polar groups into polymers on electric strength F/sub b/ are summarized. Influences of copolymerization and modification of morphology and chemical structure on F/sub b/ of polyethylene are also reviewed. Finally, we show currently used experimental techniques for direct observation of space charge, prebreakdown current and localized heat generation.>